There will be 28 groups less than last year, but nothing will prevent La Vega from celebrating its colorful Sunday February carnival parades, described as the best in the Dominican Republic. The parades of the bedeviled characters bring thousands of visitors to La Vega every year, making the celebration the pride and joy of that central valley city. Some of the costumes weigh as much as 40 pounds and can cost up to US$1,000. The first carnival warm-up is scheduled for Sunday, 1 February. The events are organized by the Union Carnavalesca Vegana (UCAVE). Carnival photo: Paul Gerace.