The Dominican Republic's Tourism Ministry set up a large dome in Times Square. Travel Pulse
In the heart of New York’s bustling Times Square, the Dominican Republic has brought a piece of its tropical charm to the cold December air with a stunning transparent dome installation in Duffy Square. Set up just weeks before the iconic New Year’s ball drop, this unique promotion allowed passersby to experience a taste of the island’s vibrant culture and hospitality, all in the middle of one of the world’s busiest intersections.
Jennifer Elias, the marketing director for the Dominican Republic’s Ministry of Tourism, explained that the purpose behind this remarkable initiative was to "bring a little bit of the Dominican Republic to Times Square." The tourism office aimed to showcase the island's warmth, both in climate and spirit, to the people of New York, its largest market. With over 1.3 million visitors from New York in 2023 alone, and a 5% increase in 2024, this effort was geared towards giving New Yorkers a firsthand feel of the Dominican culture. The dome, which opened on December 6, operated daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and remained open until December 15.
To engage with the crowds, the installation featured merengue dancers and performers clad in traditional carnival costumes. These lively dancers brought the sounds and energy of the island to the chilly streets of New York with periodic performances that delighted onlookers. Inside the dome, visitors were greeted with the rich aromas of Dominican food and drinks. Traditional dishes like empanadas and sancocho soup, alongside coconut lemon drinks and strong Dominican coffee, offered a sensory journey to the island's culinary delights. The temperature inside the dome was set to reflect the warm tropical climate, providing a comforting escape from the winter cold outside.
The experience was officially launched by the Dominican Republic's Minister of Tourism, David Collado, who shared his enthusiasm, saying, "With this activation, we want everyone in Times Square to feel the joy, authenticity, and cultural richness of the Dominican Republic. This is more than just a tourism initiative; it is a celebration of the strong ties between our countries and an invitation to discover the beauty and warmth of our home."
Aside from enjoying the island’s flavors, visitors had the chance to win souvenirs like mugs and even enter a contest for a trip to the Dominican Republic. This was not the first time the island’s tourism office had set up a pop-up in Times Square. Last year, they introduced a white, opaque dome, but this year’s transparent version allowed the public to see the exciting activities inside, adding a new level of excitement to the experience.
The event also served as a preview of what’s to come on the island in 2025, with major developments in the luxury travel sector, including the opening of the Four Seasons Hotel and Residences in Miches, and the St. Regis Cap Cana in Punta Cana. Both high-end resorts reflect the Dominican Republic’s expanding appeal to a more upscale travel market. The tourism ministry is also focusing on strengthening relationships with travel advisors, offering a new rewards program, launched in 2023, which gives cash incentives for hotel bookings, referral bonuses, and exclusive event access.
Elias emphasized the importance of these partnerships, saying, “We wanted to show how important advisors are to us.” With such developments on the horizon, the Dominican Republic is set to continue growing as a top destination for travelers, appealing to a broader market while still holding on to its rich cultural roots.
