Every village and town in the Dominican Republic has a patron saint.
The patron saint of Sosúa is the holy Señora de la Altagracia.
The patron saint of Puerto Plata is the Apostle Felipe.
One week from the date of birth of these saints it is common to celebrate this in honor of the saint.
Patronales Puerto Plata
That was originally celebrated with processions where the wooden statue of the saint was carried through the streets of the town or city.
Nowadays there are few processions and it is more about a big party with many stalls where they sell beer and other beverages.
In a press conference the program for the upcoming Patronales in Puerto Plata have been announced.
The festivities take place from 25 April to 3 May at the Town Hall square and include performances by dance groups, music groups, theater performances and exhibitions.
Obviously the week of festivities starts and ends with a Holy Mass in the St. Felipe Cathedral at the Town Hall square.
Source: Puerto Plata habla
