The tiny nation of Nicaragua is home to an astoundingly diverse culture and landscape. Famous for its natural beauty, Nicaragua offers visitors everything from smoking volcanoes and crater lakes to lush jungles and pristine beaches. The nation's culture is no less varied, combining elements of indigenous, African and European culture into a rich tapestry of customs and local celebrations. The festival of Santo Domingo in the capital of Managua is one such event, where Nicaragua's vibrant and fascinating culture is on full display.
The festival of Santo Domingo dates back to the late 19th century. According to local legend, a farmer discovered a small statue of Saint Dominic Guzman in the branches of a tree outside the city. The farmer took the statue to a church in Managua but -- upon returning to the farm -- discovered that it was once again in the same tree. A priest in Managua decided to build a small chapel on the spot of the statue's appearance and, ever since, the statue of the city's patron saint is paraded into Managua amid great fanfare for the yearly festival before being returned to the parish.
The festival of Santo Domingo in Managua is half religious event and half party. The religious component of the festival consists of masses and processions as the statue of the saint completes its trip through Managua. On July 31, a solemn mass is held in the Las Sierritas Parish as the statue is taken from the church and prepared for the trip. On August 1, during another mass, the statue is blessed and begins its journey, accompanied by a huge group of devotees. Huge crowds and another mass receive the statue in the Santo Domingo church in Managua. On August 4, the statue is paraded around the city by devotees and -- after a night mass on August 9 -- a procession returns the statue to Las Sierritas Parish on August 10.
Around masses and processions, the festival of Santo Domingo takes on the feel of a giant street party. Everywhere the statue goes, a flock of dancers -- often in colorful costumes including devils, farm animals and Indians -- enthusiastically follows. On July 31, a greased pole is placed in the Cristo Rey rotonda in Managua, and revelers try climb to the top for prizes ranging from cash to electrical appliances. Outside the Santo Domingo church, street stalls selling food, alcohol and toys create a carnival atmosphere for the duration of the festival. During the highlight of the party, on August 1 and 10, the city holds a parade of horses and colorful floats that starts at the city pier and then makes its way through Managua. All along the parade route, visitors find dancing, music, food and drink.
Although some religious and community organizations hold private events around the festival, most of the Santo Domingo festivities are public and open to visitors. If you're traveling in Managua during the festival dates, the processions and celebrations will be hard to miss. Parade routes vary slightly from year to year, but public notices before the event advertise street closings and the year's route. For easier access to the festivities, find lodgings in the center of the city or near the Santo Doming Church. While the festivities are open, be respectful of masses of religious ceremonies, and do not photograph attendees unless they agree to be photographed. Violent crime is rare during the festivities, but you should keep an eye out for pickpockets in crowded areas.
