Festival of the Holy Spirit (Fiesta del Espíritu Santo)

The Fiesta del Espíritu Santo is one of the most important Afro-Dominican religious celebrations, blending Catholic traditions with African spiritual practices. Centered in Villa Mella (now part of Santo Domingo Norte) and communities around San Cristóbal, the festival honors the Holy Spirit through the sacred palos drums.

The palos drumming tradition of Villa Mella was declared a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2001. The celebration features all-night drum circles, spiritual dances, and communal feasting — a living link to the Dominican Republic's African heritage.