Been living in Dominican republic for almost 2 years outside the traditional expats social bubbles and this is my second carnival. As the opinions about cultural symbolism differ from person to person one is for sure - it is a pitoresque picture of chaos, energy, fun and traditions. This photo was taken by me on the ceremonial opening of carnival in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, Sunday February 19th.
The guy on the picture is wearing one of the costumes that differs by regional "dance" schools. I am using quotation marks because sometimes it's pretty hard to call their dance dancing... But who am I to judge! Dominicans really enjoy carnival because of the colors, noise and lots o people to express their freedom and will to live. That's why nobody cares about the coordination because the main emphasis is LIVING THE MOMENT.
Didn't even want to go there as I didn't realise it's "that" Sunday. Saw a huge group of people, saw some masks, went to check it and spend whole afternoon on the festivities. Moments like this are healing...
