Charlotte Celebrates Dominican Independence: Fiestas Patrias Event

February 19, 2026 Lucas Fernandez – World Editor World

Charlotte, North Carolina will host a free, public celebration of the 181st anniversary of Dominican Independence on Sunday, February 23, 2025, at the Simmons YMCA, located at 6824 Democracy Drive. The event, organized by Enlace Dominicano and the Comité de Fiestas Patrias y Tradiciones de Charlotte (CFTC), aims to share Dominican culture and history with the wider Charlotte community.

The celebration will feature live music, including performances by Tommy Jiménez and Mingolo, playing merengue and other Caribbean rhythms. The Academia de Danzas Saoko will present a traditional Dominican dance performance. Attendees can also expect a DJ, traditional Dominican food such as *moro* (rice and beans), *pollo guisado* (stewed chicken), fried plantains, *yuca*, and *pernil* (roasted pork), as well as desserts, juices, and *morir soñando* – a drink made with orange juice, milk, and sugar. Various vendors will be present.

Nidia Holguín, president of Enlace Dominicano, described the event as an invitation to the entire community to experience Dominican independence. Elizabeth Del Rosario-Baker and Beatriz Sellers, members of the Enlace Dominicano Board of Directors, are leading the event’s organization.

This year’s event marks the tenth consecutive year that Fiestas Patrias has honored Dominican Independence in Charlotte. The celebration also receives support from Culture Blocks, an initiative of the Arts & Science Council of Charlotte funded by Mecklenburg County, in collaboration with Charlotte Mecklenburg Parks and Recreation and the Public Library of Charlotte Mecklenburg County. Sponsors include the Foundation for the Carolinas, the Infusion Fund, the Hispanic Federation, Telemundo Charlotte, El Ideal Corporation, Enrique Álzate Realty, Iniciativa Libre, Clear Voice, Prospera, Compare Foods, Hello Signs, Guaripete Solutions, and Maral Media Productions.

The program will be directed by Elizabeth Del Rosario-Baker and Beatriz Sellers, who have been actively working to strengthen Dominican identity and culture within the city. Organizers have planned a cultural program including history, poetry, and activities for children, alongside contests and other interactive elements.