Costa Rica Independence Day

Costa Rica Independence Day, observed annually on September 15th, is a cherished national holiday in this Central American country. Its main purpose is to honour and celebrate the day Costa Rica and several other Central American nations collectively broke their colonial ties with Spain in 1821. This festive holiday is marked by a myriad of vibrant events and activities, embodying Costa Rica's cultural heritage and patriotic spirit.

The day commemorates the signing of the Act of Independence by the Central American provinces. Costa Rica, along with Nicaragua, Honduras, El Salvador, and Guatemala, declared independence from Spain on September 15, 1821. Although news of their independence didn't reach Costa Rica until October, September 15th remains the recognized date for celebration.

The celebration typically includes parades, traditional dance performances, and concerts which fill the streets with forthright joy and gratitude. Perhaps the most symbolic event of the day is when children across the country carry small lanterns, representing the journey of Dolores Bedoya, who in 1821 ignited a lantern as she moved through the streets of Guatemala City, encouraging people to support independence. Known as the Desfile de Faroles (Lantern Parade), this tradition is held the night before Independence Day, on September 14th. On September 15th, the nation hums with patriotic anthems and flag-waving, firmly assuring Costa Rica's Independence Day's marked place within the country's cultural identity and yearly calendar.