Did You Know?
The uprising began at Capotillo, near the Haitian border, where rebels raised the Dominican flag on August 16, 1863 — an event still remembered as the 'Grito de Capotillo,' or Cry of Capotillo, that ignited the War of Restoration.
Restoration Day
🇩🇴 Dominican Republic
- Public Holiday
- Countrywide
- Fixed date
Overview
Restoration Day is a Dominican Republic public holiday observed every August 16, commemorating the start of an 1863 uprising that ended a brief period of Spanish rule and restored the nation's independence. It ranks among the country's most significant patriotic holidays.
What It Is
On Restoration Day, Dominicans observe a non-working public holiday marked by civic and military ceremonies, flag-raising events, and patriotic gatherings in cities and towns across the country. Government buildings, schools, and many businesses close for the day. Because the Dominican constitution sets August 16 as the date incoming presidents are sworn in, years following a presidential election add inauguration ceremonies to the day's observances, drawing added public attention. Wreath-laying at monuments to the Restoration War's leaders and commemorative speeches recalling the 1863 uprising are common features of the day nationwide.
Why It Matters
The holiday marks a pivotal moment in Dominican history: the reversal of President Pedro Santana's 1861 decision to re-annex the young republic to Spain less than two decades after it had won independence from Haiti. Spanish rule proved deeply unpopular, and in August 1863 rebels in the Cibao region launched an armed revolt that grew into the two-year Dominican War of Restoration. Guerrilla resistance, led by figures such as Gregorio Luperón and Gaspar Polanco, wore down Spanish forces until they withdrew in 1865. The war's success re-established Dominican sovereignty for good, making Restoration Day a lasting symbol of national self-determination and resistance to foreign rule.
Holiday in Context
Restoration Day complements Dominican Independence Day, observed each February 27 to mark the 1844 separation from Haiti. Where Independence Day celebrates the republic's founding, Restoration Day marks a second liberation, from Spanish rule two decades later, giving the country two distinct patriotic holidays for two different fights for sovereignty.
Countries Celebrating
1 country
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