Religion in Nicaragua

Nicaragua is a traditionally Christian country, with approximately 73% of the population practicing Roman Catholicism and another 15% attending evangelical churches. As a result, there are numerous religious holidays and festivals throughout the year. Banks and government offices may be closed, and there will almost certainly be commotion. The Catholic church frequently fires off sound fireworks before dawn to wake people up and remind them that there is a reason to go to church that day. Church parades wind through town, with the majority of the Catholic congregations trailing and sometimes dancing behind.

The Protestant churches appear to have a larger following along the Atlantic Coast. Other forms of religion are practiced by a very small percentage of Nicaraguans. The Jewish community is small, and the small Muslim communities are mostly made up of illegal residents and immigrants who have become naturalized Nicaraguans. Followers of the Church of Scientology and the Baha'i Faith are in the minority. Nicaraguans are generally religiously inclined, with many attending services and participating in other religious observances. Nicaraguans frequently use phrases like "if it is God's will" to demonstrate the importance of religion in their lives. Nicaragua's diverse religious heritage only adds to the allure of this fascinating country. During your travels through Nicaragua you will without a doubt come across a variety of religious expressions and traditions.