Mangoes are a very seasonable fruit and are especially abundant in June and July.
The production and commercialization of the fruit has become one of national pride. The fruit is an important export from the Dominican Republic to world markets, especially to the United States and Europe. Diario Libre reports Agriculture Minister Limber Cruz says this year’s crop was good and exports could grow 30% this year.
Bani, about an hour from the capital city, is recognized as the mango capital of the Caribbean.
Every year at about this time, the city of Bani in southcentral Peravia province, celebrates its Mango Festival. This year the party starts on Wednesday 29 May and ends on Sunday, 2 June 2024. It is not to be missed. It is a time to visit Bani and return home with baskets of the delicious golden fruit.
For those interested, there will be technical talks at Bani’s Perello Cultural Center with the participation
of speakers representing the United States’ National Mango Board.
There are around 300 varieties of mango produced in the Dominican Republic, and about 100 will be on display in Bani.
A word of advice for those who will attend the festival. Mangoes are eaten with the hands so visitors should bring a supply of towels, wipes, and napkins, along with plenty of water. It is an exhilarating experience to work through half a dozen mangoes, but they are juicy!
Read more in Spanish:
Listin Diario
Diario Libre
28 May 2024