After doing some research, dominos originated in . . . China. That’s right- no surprise there, as China has history that traces back many dynasties. Exactly how the dominos game made it to Europe is unknown. There is a difference between the Chinese dominos set and the European/Caribbean set. Dominos from China have 32 tiles compared to the European/ Caribbean version with 28 tiles in a set.
When Europeans “discovered” the Americas, the first place they landed is on an island. There are different stories as to the exact whereabouts, but there is no doubt that it was in the Caribbean. Christopher Columbus’ voyage was originally set for China when he landed on an island, so although the connection of dominos making it from China to the Caribbean is unknown, there is a connection as to how far back dominos might have been introduced to the islands.
Why is the dominos game so popular in the Caribbean?
The islands of Bahamas, Cuba, Hispaniola (Haiti & Dominican Republic), Jamaica & Puerto Rico love playing dominos. It is custom to see players (mostly men) concentrated figuring out whether “pasó con ficha” to skip, “capicúa” domino piece can be used on either side of the layout or “trancado” the game is locked and can’t proceed. Of course, there are different rules for playing dominos in accordance with the country. Cubans play differently from Jamaicans who play differently from Dominicans, etc. What is undeniably the same is the calculation of counting the numbers on the tiles, all while passing the time and joking during a game that has more cleverness than people think. There is a mutual respect amongst dominos players, as it is mostly played between two teams, and each team has two players.
There are special tables made to play dominos with grooved edges to fit each players domino tiles. Of course, design and price vary according to the material used and how intricate the design. Domino tiles are made of different materials including plastic, metals, stone, and wood. Sturdy domino tiles can last a lifetime and survive hundreds of “capicúa” slams on a table.
Playing dominos is an inexpensive pastime that celebrates comradery and calculated moves. Warm Caribbean weather allows for people to play outside in the evening when the sun is more forgiving. In different places around the world, specifically the northeast of the US, we see domino games being played in the streets as soon as the weather is bearable to play outside. There’s no question people are playing dominos all year round, except that it’s indoors. Even though you don’t see people playing dominos inside during colder weather, you will definitely hear your neighbors playing.
What is the domino effect?
The domino game is so popular, the term domino effect exists. The domino effect is when one occurrence or thing affects the total outcome. Just like the game, a single move in life affects everything else.
Dominos Party Decorations
As mentioned above, playing dominos is very popular amongst the Latinos. It brings nostalgia to first & second gen seeing family members playing the game. Here at Decorate For The Culture®️ we focus on celebrating la cultura with party decorations that reflect us. Our designs vary from decorations with varying skin shades to designs such as the domino party decorations that are more symbolic. We know that families celebrate near and far, thus make an effort to make party decorations available in English and Español, as well as in a digital format and handmade to order.
There’s inspiration everywhere, and the vision for this party theme came from the conejo malo aka Bad Bunny’s Allure magazine cover. As you can see, dominos were used as nails and the ideas started flowing from there. At first, I was going to create a classic black and white design that resembles the original domino tiles. Then I saw these beautiful acrylic dominos and decided to make colorful domino party decorations just like our vibrant people. These travel size acrylic dominos are lightweight making them easy to use in creating the beautiful, limited-edition necklace, earrings and napkin rings. We primarily focus on party decorations but couldn’t resist creating pieces that are both nostalgic and functional.
The domino party decorations are unisex and titled “Las Fichas de la Vida” and the closest translation that makes sense is “Life’s Moves”. We’re all making decisions with the goal to win so why not have party decorations that reflect that. The domino party decorations have an alphabet with each letter designed with matching dominos. This digital alphabet allows for more personalization. “Happy Birthday”, “Feliz Cumpleaños” and “capicúa” all have the dominos lettering. That’s right- it’s all about the details. The water bottles also have nutrition facts label with a cultural twist 😉.
The dominos party theme was created in March, which is Women’s History Month in the US. Why create a party theme of a game that is mostly played by men? Well, it’s my birthday month and I think about my inspiration, my life, and my moves. The design inspires women to take their ideas and create items that differ from what’s expected.
Cultura is art. Be art.
Celebrate it. Wear it.