There might be no better time to immerse yourself in true Dominican culture than during the Independence season. Created to recognize Dominica's independence from Great Britain on November 3, 1978, Independence Festivities celebrate music, dance, dress, and cuisine. Every year, the country commemorates it's independence with a season of cultural activities that can last as long as four weeks. These celebrations portray vivid examples of the island's cultural influences. The traditional dances display European traces in Hill & Toe, Waltz, and Quadrille; and borrow from African native dances in Bèlè. 

Here are some of the aspects you shouldn't miss!

• National Dress: The Wob Dwiyet is the centrepiece of this stunning costume and is widely worn. The last Friday before Independence is Creole Day, and all Dominicans will wear at least some variation of the national dress.
• Jing Ping: Our traditional music is formally known as the Accordian Band and features the Bamboo Flute, the Boom-Boom (a long bamboo wind instrument), the Gwaj (an idiophone), and, of course, the Accordian.
• National Dance: Our Quadrille and Bèlè dances evoke a time of elegance but with a distinct Caribbean flavour.
• Market Day with a Difference: Our markets are generally a riot of colour, but at Independence, they embrace the mood. Each week at one market around the island  vendors will dress in national costume, and Jing Ping will be playing!
• National Food: Independence would not be complete without enjoying our unique dishes. Crab-backs, Callaloo, and Titiwi accras are just some of the many delicious foods you'll be able to try at this time of year.