Music festivals in the Dominican Republic
Welcome to the heart of the Dominican music festival scene!
While the Dominican Republic is famous for its beaches, it's also home to many amazing music festivals that bring together a variety of rhythms, including reggae, salsa and merengue, to create a joyful and authentic experience! If you're looking for an entertaining musical experience, this is the guide for you! Plan your itinerary accordingly and get ready! You're about to discover a fascinating culture!
The Dominican Republic's must-see music festivals
1. Festival del Merengue y Ritmos Caribeños – Santo Domingo
Immerse yourself in the heart of Dominican traditions!
This lively celebration of Dominican and Caribbean music attracts hundreds of people eager to dance the merengue and hear its rhythms. After all, merengue is the national music of the Dominican Republic!
The programme also includes open-air concerts, food stalls selling local produce, and dance performances for all ages!
So, why go? To experience the unforgettable atmosphere where the old meets the new, and where top merengue and salsa performers showcase their talents.
Dates: Mid-July (exact dates to be confirmed).
Location: Malecón de Santo Domingo
2. Dominican Republic Jazz Festival – Cabarete, Sosúa and Puerto Plata
Experience a unique jazz atmosphere on the north coast.
Held in Cabarete, Sosúa and Puerto Plata respectively, the Dominican Republic Jazz Festival is another event not to be overlooked.
It offers a distinct jazz ambience along the country's north coast. Spread over several days, it features performances by local and international artists, creating a relaxed musical atmosphere that attracts music lovers from all walks of life.
Why go there?
Because its legendary musical ambience attracts millions of jazz fans every year. Participants have the opportunity to enjoy jazz on the beach while discovering local culture and taking part in interactive activities.
Dates: Usually in November
Location: Cabarete, Sosúa and Puerto Plata
3. Isle of Light Festival, Santo Domingo
Electro and indie by the sea
Electro concert in Santo Domingo.
Fans of electronic music shouldn't miss this festival!
This annual event brings together international alternative and electronic artists for a show that promises outstanding visuals and music! See you next time!
Why go?
Experience an unforgettable visual and sonic journey through artworks, light shows, and DJ sets that will transport you to an exciting audiovisual world.
Dates: Usually in March
Location: Faro a Colón, Santo Domingo
4. Festival Presidente de la Música Latina – Santo Domingo
A great festival for fans of Latin music!
This grandiose festival brings together global and local superstars.
Held every two years, this unforgettable event brings together global and local superstars. Latin music fans shouldn't miss this incredible event! Make sure you don't miss the next edition in 2025 and don't let apathy stop you from witnessing this explosion of Latin music!
Why go?
Get ready to see iconic Latin music artists such as Daddy Yankee, Shakira and Juan Luis Guerra take to the stage and perform live!
Dates: Every two years, usually in October (to be confirmed for 2025).
Location: Félix Sánchez Olympic Stadium, Santo Domingo
5. National Bachata Festival – La Romana
Dance to the rhythm of bachata!
Bachata music and dance are inextricably linked to the culture of the Dominican Republic, and this festival is a passionate celebration of that connection. The festival offers concerts, dance classes and open-air evenings dedicated to this musical genre for dancers of all levels.
Why go?
It's an opportunity to experience Dominican culture through sensual dancing and to take classes that will make you feel like a pro!
Dates: Early August
Location: La Romana
6. Santo Domingo Classical Music Festival
Harmony and melody in the capital
For classical music lovers
Santo Domingo brings harmony and melody to its capital with an annual festival held in iconic venues such as the Eduardo Brito National Theatre. Symphonic orchestras from around the globe perform for audiences seeking sweet melodies.
Why go?
For a true experience of musical sophistication in the heart of the Caribbean, look no further! Refresh your musical knowledge in Santo Domingo this October!
Dates: October
Location: Eduardo Brito National Theatre, Santo Domingo
7. Concerts and musical outings in Punta Cana
Enjoy the musical experience in Punta Cana!
Punta Cana offers an unforgettable musical experience. As well as its dream beaches, the
city hosts a variety of concerts and musical events throughout the year. From Latin music shows and DJ nights to live concerts in hotels, Punta Cana is the perfect destination for music lovers.
The Cocobongo and Imagine Cave venues both promise unforgettable musical evenings!
Dates: All year round
Location: Punta Cana (Cocobongo, Imagine Cave, hotels)