The Dominican Book and Culture Festival 2026 officially opened in New York City on Friday, bringing together more than 180 writers, academics, artists, educators, and researchers for a three-day program dedicated to Dominican literature, cultural expression, and intellectual exchange.
The opening ceremony was led by Roberto Ángel Salcedo, the Dominican Republic’s Minister of Culture, at the George Washington Educational Campus in Washington Heights, a neighborhood that is home to one of the largest Dominican communities in the United States.
Joining the minister were Dominican Consul General Jesús “Chú” Vásquez, New York education officials, cultural leaders, authors, artists, and representatives of community organizations.
A Tribute to Juan Pablo Duarte’s Enduring Legacy
Organized by the Directorate of Dominican Culture Abroad (DCDEX), part of the Ministry of Culture, the festival features more than 120 activities, including book presentations, lectures, workshops, poetry readings, theatrical performances, concerts, exhibitions, documentary screenings, and children’s programming.
A central theme of this year’s edition commemorates the 150th anniversary of the death of Juan Pablo Duarte, the founding father of the Dominican Republic. The program explores Duarte’s lasting influence on the country’s national identity through academic discussions, literary presentations, documentaries, and artistic performances.
Featured events include the keynote lecture “Juan Pablo Duarte: 150 Years of Absence, an Eternity of Presence in the Nation’s Conscience,” the presentation of the book Los espejos de Duarte, the lecture “Juan Pablo Duarte and the Foundation of the Dominican Nation,” and a screening of the documentary A Young Man Named Juan Pablo Duarte.
Recognition for Contributions to Hispanic Literature
During the opening ceremony, organizers honored Dr. Ángel Capellán, founder and president of LEA Book Distributors, in recognition of his longstanding contributions to promoting books, education, and Hispanic culture in the United States. The tribute included a video highlighting his impact on publishing and academic development.
The festival also brings together publishing houses and cultural organizations from the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Mexico, and the United States, alongside authors and cultural representatives from Spain, Argentina, Colombia, Peru, Cuba, and Puerto Rico.
Promoting Reading and Cultural Dialogue
As part of the program, Minister Roberto Ángel Salcedo will lead the discussion “The Power of Good Words,” a conversation highlighting respectful communication and dialogue as essential tools for strengthening democratic coexistence and encouraging mutual understanding.
Held under the theme “Reading Is Blooming”, the Dominican Book and Culture Festival 2026 aims to encourage reading, strengthen cultural ties within the Dominican diaspora, and showcase Dominican literary and intellectual achievements to international audiences.
Organizers said the full schedule of activities is available through the festival’s official website and the digital platforms of the Directorate of Dominican Culture Abroad.