Best Times to Visit

Weather

Dominica has a warm and humid climate; average monthly temperatures range between 26 and 32°C, whilst average annual rainfall is 175 cm on the coast and 625 cm in the mountains. The main rainy season is between June and October, when it is hottest.

Visitors are advised to bring lightweight cottons and linens, with rainwear recommended for most of the year.

For a more detailed look at the Dominican weather, see Climate in Dominica.

Festivals

One of the main events in the calendar is Carnival, celebrated during the traditional Mardi Gras period, in the two weeks prior to Lent, in February/March. Carnival features calypso competitions, a Carnival Queen contest, 'jump-ups' and a costume parade. Another important date is Creole Day, usually held on the Friday before Independence Day (3 November). It's a celebration of the island's Creole language and culture and includes traditional dancing, folklore, local food and music.

Public Holidays

The following table shows the public holidays celebrated in the Commonwealth of Dominica: