The City Council of the National District (ADN), in coordination with the Carnival Union (UCADI), has officially announced that the 2026 National District Carnival parade will take place on Sunday, 22 February 2026.
The event is set to transform the Avenida George Washington (El Malecón) into a vibrant display of Dominican folklore and tradition. Organizers confirmed that the procession will span the scenic coastal stretch between the “Obelisco Macho” and the “Obelisco Hembra.”
This year’s edition is dedicated to the late Dr. José Guillermo Mieses, known affectionately as “Pepe,” a distinguished physician, sportsman, and founder of the legendary “Los Leones del Diablo” troupe. The 2026 royal court will be led by Carnival King Francisco Taveras Benítez and Carnival Queen Santa Valdés.
More than 70 troupes (comparsas) are expected to participate, competing for a prize pool that includes a RD$300,000 grand prize for the top-performing group. Categories for the competition include Traditional Devils, Fantasy Devils, Alibabá, and Historical Troupes, among others.
Elizabeth Mateo, the Secretary General of the City Council, invited Dominican families to join the celebration, emphasizing that the event would provide a safe and colorful environment to honor the nation’s cultural heritage.
February is the month of carnival in the Dominican Republic with other carnival parades scheduled in La Vega, Santiago, Bonao and Puerto Plata (all Sundays in February), and on 20 and 21 February in Punta Cana.
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CDN
3 February 2026