The Traditions of Dominican Carnaval

Lechones de Santiago

The lechones represent the traditional style of Dominican carnival. As the host of the country's second-largest carnival — and a region known for its pork — Santiago weaves pig imagery into its costumes. These beautiful masks, shaped like pigs (and sometimes ducks), are crafted from clay molds covered with papier-mâché, then shined, painted, and decorated with vibrant colors, each uniquely designed to represent its neighborhood.

Every lechón must know how to crack the whip and perform the traditional dance. Their movement is distinctly African in origin — as Stelvyn describes it, they move through the crowd like the Paso Fino horse, with precise, rhythmic steps that tell the story of centuries of cultural fusion. Historically, the lechones were seen as guardians of the carnival, leading the parade and keeping crowds in check with whips made from sisal rope that crack with a sharp, intimidating sound.

"They move through the crowd like the Paso Fino horse" — Stelvyn Mirabal

Roba La Gallina

Translating to 'the chicken thief,' this character has been part of Dominican carnival traditions since the time of the Haitian occupation, when individuals accused of stealing chickens were publicly shamed by being covered in feathers.

Traditionally portrayed by a man dressed in exaggerated feminine attire — complete with an elaborate dress, accentuated features, an umbrella, and a large handbag said to carry the stolen chicken — the character moves through the streets engaging and entertaining the crowd with lively, playful interactions.