Maundy Thursday in Dominican Republic ― Date, History, and Details
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History of Maundy Thursday in Dominican Republic and How to Celebrate/ Observe It
Maundy Thursday, or Día de Gracias in Spanish, is a day of thanksgiving in the Dominican Republic. It is celebrated on the last Thursday of November, which is also the day before Thanksgiving in the United States.
Dominicans give thanks for their blessings, both material and spiritual, on this day. Families gather together for a large feast, which typically includes dishes such as roasted pig, rice and beans, and yuca. After the meal, people often attend church services together.
Maundy Thursday is also a day of charity in the Dominican Republic. Many people choose to donate food or clothes to those who are less fortunate. Others may volunteer their time at local soup kitchens or shelters.
This day of thanksgiving has its origins in the country’s indigenous Taino people. The Taino celebrated a harvest festival called Yamaye around the time of the winter solstice. After the Spanish arrived in the Dominican Republic, the festival was combined with the Christian holiday of Thanksgiving.