Santo Domingo, DR.- The United States Embassy in the Dominican Republic celebrated the 250th anniversary of the North American nation’s independence with an official reception hosted by Ambassador Leah Francis Campos at her residence in Santo Domingo. The event brought together nearly a thousand guests, including President Luis Abinader, government officials, representatives of the diplomatic corps, business leaders, religious leaders, members of civil society, and media representatives.
During the ceremony, the ambassador highlighted that the commemoration, held under the theme “Freedom 250”, commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, a document that gave rise to the United States and laid the foundations for principles such as liberty, life, and the pursuit of happiness, values that, she stated, continue to guide the nation two and a half centuries later.
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Campos also highlighted the ties that unite the United States and the Dominican Republic, noting that both nations share ideals such as freedom, love for the homeland, and faith, in addition to close cooperation that strengthens the development and well-being of both peoples.
The protocol ceremony began with a religious invocation by Reverend Father David Soriano, parish priest and rector of the Primatial Cathedral of America, followed by the traditional presentation of the colors by the United States Marine Corps. The national anthems were performed by the winners of a contest organized by the Embassy: the group Casi Grupo performed the American anthem, while eight-year-old Ian David Ferreira sang the notes of the national anthem.
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For the occasion, the ambassador’s official residence was transformed into a journey through the history of the United States. Attendees entered through an immersive tunnel featuring images of iconic moments in the nation’s history, while the gardens were decorated with elements inspired by the patriotic colors of both countries. Among the most striking spaces was a replica of the Washington Monument installed over the pool, as well as a themed room dedicated to the tobacco tradition shared by the United States and the Dominican Republic.
The gastronomic proposal, created by executive chef Arleen Rivera, combined traditional American recipes with local ingredients. The menu included mini brisket sandwiches, Buffalo-style chicken sliders, lobster rolls, short rib tacos, and corn dogs, as well as classic desserts such as pecan, apple, cherry, and lemon pies. The experience also featured an American bourbon station, sponsored by El Catador, and a cocktail made with Dominican mamajuana especially for the celebration.
The evening was enlivened by the American jazz quintet Zach Niess, who performed renowned classics from the international repertoire. The celebration concluded with a fireworks display that illuminated the Santo Domingo sky in the colors red, white, and blue, closing a day dedicated to highlighting the history of the United States and the bonds of friendship it maintains with the Dominican Republic.
