Fiestas típicas Nacionales

Every year on January 14th, Santa Cruz hosts the famed Fiestas típicas Nacionales, a Catholic event dedicated to a saint known locally as "Cristo de Esquipulas." Fiestas típicas Nacionales, one of the most famous festivals in Costa Rica, promotes Guanacaste culture. Many individuals from out of town take the day off and travel from all over the country to experience the fantastic atmosphere in town. It's worth mentioning that the Semana Cultural, or Cultural Week, takes place the week before the official start and includes activities such as traditional dance performances.

The rodeo is one of the most essential activities, and it is considered that only brave men dare to master the beast. Other cultural traditions include the Pasacalle, a procession in which people wear large and colourful masks (Mascaradas), and the Tope, a horse parade in which the riders dress up and trot their horses at a special speed. This event is mostly focused on music, and the marimba, a percussion instrument, serves as the opening act. Carousels for kids - and why not older ones? - mechanical games, street cuisine, performances, and much more are all part of the Fiestas típicas Nacionales de Santa Cruz. It is a very special two-week period of festivities during which the Santacruceños demonstrate their pride in their culture.

Time: January 14th

Location: Santa Cruz