san-jose.cr

When the Christmas and New Year’s parties and over, and the rest of the world is calming down and waiting for the next holiday (Valentine´s Day… not so exciting), ticos (Costa Ricans) are counting down the days for the Fiestas Palmareñas.

Since Costa Rica is such a small country, most ticos have their calendars fairly in sync. Everyone is always waiting for something fun and exciting to do, and the Palmares Fiestas are high up on the priority list. The parties held in Palmares are known as some of the best in the country, and the Fiestas Palmareñas is one of Costa Rica´s most anticipated yearly celebrations.

Friends begin making plans anxiously in advance, looking forward to spending a day in the sun of Palmares, Alejuela, enjoying a cool six pack and watching from the sidelines as parades of horses and cowboys show off their majesty and skill. As mid-January closes in, cowboys boots and hats are taken out of closets and coolers are dragged out of garages as ticos from through the country prepare to celebrate the traditional Costa Rican “tope” in style (a “tope” is a traditional horse parade).

The celebrations last for about two weeks, and include a range of activities including concerts, horse parades, fireworks, sports activities, stands serving traditional foods and alcohol, theatrical performances, bouncy-bounces and games for children as well as a Costa Rican style bullfight (one in which the bull is not harmed).

Though the parties are good-natured, and most people are there simply to enjoy themselves, extra safety precautions would certainly be wise in the extra crowds. For foreigners, it is recommended to carry as little valuables as possible with you, and to maintain them as close to you as possible. ID is asked for in all venues which serve alcohol, and though a copy of your passport is traditionally excepted, some have had problems with this before, so bringing your original passport (kept carefully with you at all times!) may be a good idea. And, though you’ll certainly want to get some pictures of the horses and bullfighting, you may want to consider opting for a disposal, or not-too-expensive camera!

With such a wide range of activities, the event is an ideal one for families and friends alike. Whether you’re looking for a traditional celebration, or a traditionally good party, Palmares is sure to keep you entertained. Don´t miss out on this must-do, event.