Last updated: 9:00 PM ET, Mon May 11, 2026
WHY IT RATES: Panaca República Dominicana showcased its cultural and hospitality offerings at DATE 2026's pre-opening event, emphasizing innovative tourism and strengthening industry connections. —Janeen Christoff, TravelPulse Managing Editor
Panaca República Dominicana set the stage for a remarkable evening during the official pre-opening of DATE 2026, part of the country’s leading annual tourism gathering organized by the Asociación de Hoteles y Turismo de la República Dominicana, held April 21.
This pre-opening event was part of the official agenda leading up to DATE 2026, a key platform that annually brings together tour operators, travel agencies, airlines, hotel chains, and investors, solidifying its role as the most important marketplace for the Dominican Republic’s tourism industry.
The evening was attended by representatives from the Ministry of Tourism, executives from ASONAHORES, senior leaders from Banco BHD León, the renowned tour operator Amstar, as well as extensive international, national, and local media coverage. PANACA RD delivered an immersive experience that seamlessly blended culture, entertainment, and hospitality, highlighting experiential tourism as a key differentiator of the destination.
The program began with welcome remarks followed by the keynote address from Jorge Ballen, President of PANACA República Dominicana, who emphasized the importance of creating spaces that strengthen connections among industry stakeholders while fostering innovative approaches within the country’s tourism offering.
Guests were then invited to enjoy an interactive tour of the park’s facilities, including its educational “living classrooms,” exhibitions at the Ovejódomo, and the flagship performance Travesía World Show, widely recognized as one of the premier equestrian theatrical productions in the Americas.
The evening concluded with the iconic “Fiesta Dominicana,” featuring the Orquesta Rumbeando, live artistic performances, and an exquisite culinary showcase at Restaurante Trapiche—creating the perfect setting for networking and strengthening business relationships among attendees.
Through this initiative, PANACA República Dominicana reaffirms its commitment to the development of the national tourism sector, adding value to platforms such as DATE 2026 and supporting ASONAHORES’ ongoing efforts to position the Dominican Republic as a competitive, innovative, and sustainable destination.
SOURCE: Dominican Republic press release
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