Puerto Plata.- February in the Dominican Republic is Carnaval Month, when people celebrate the festivities by dressing up, hosting parades, and paying homage to the rich history of the island.

The roots of the festival's dances and costumes can be traced back to traditions carried over by African slaves, Spanish predecessors, and ancient Taino peoples.

Nowadays, the festival itself is purely Dominican and each city or town that holds a celebration adds their own localized twist. The celebrations lead up to a favorite holiday for many, Dominican Independence Day, February 27.

In the Carnaval of the Atlantic coast city Puerto Plata, the most popular costumes figure Bear Man, and of Taino ancestors, among others.