Activities: Costa Rican Culture
One of Costa Rica’s rowdiest and most beloved Christmas traditions is the Tope Nacional, or National Horse Parade. Held in San Jose on December 26th, this annual event dates back to colonial times, when the festivities to honor Saint John began with a horse race. The parade has evolved into the country’s largest equestrian display, where horse owners come from far and wide to show off their best steeds. Instead of racing, the horses are trained to take special steps, almost dancing for the spectators that line the streets. For many, the Tope Nacional is …
Location: Central Pacific, Central Valley, Monteverde Region, North Pacific, Northern Caribbean, Northern Region, South Pacific, Southern Caribbean »
Activities: Costa Rican Culture »
For many Costa Ricans the season’s culinary dishes are steeped in tradition. A favorite during the holidays, tamales (pronounced tah-mahl-ays) are a delectable treat made with fine corn flour, potatoes, vegetables, meat, and wrapped in a plantain leaf. It is unclear when the tradition of tamales began, but they are considered part of the national heritage – everyone has fond memories of eating tamales at Christmastime.
Each family has its own, sometimes secret, tamal recipe that has been passed down for generations, usually from mother to daughter. Costa Ricans set aside a weekend (or two) in …
Location: Central Pacific, Central Valley, Monteverde Region, North Pacific, Northern Caribbean, Northern Region, South Pacific, Southern Caribbean »
Activities: Costa Rican Culture »
Christmas in Costa Rica is filled with festivities, parades, and family traditions that reach back generations. A joyous, celebratory atmosphere descends, touching many aspects of everyday life and making December the favorite month for many. The season unofficially begins in early November, when Halloween decorations are replaced with Christmas displays and festive tunes hit the airwaves. As holiday preparations kick into high gear, many Costa Ricans decorate their homes with blinking lights, a Christmas tree, nativity scenes, and fresh cypress wreaths.
Christmas is a time of year-end bonuses and long vacations from school and work. All …
Location: Central Valley »
Activities: Costa Rican Culture »
