The Christmas Season Begins in Costa Rica
The Festival of Lights or as it is known as Festival de la Luz in San Jose is the kickoff to the Christmas season in Costa Rica. With over a million people attending on a yearly basis, the festival is a combination of lights, culture, music and costumes that is held on the second Saturday of December. The festival is a reminder of the significance of friends and family during the holiday season and hope for the new year.
The festival includes a parade complete with floats, street dancers and music which will make its way from Paseo Colon to El Parque de la Democracia. Each year there is also a grand marshall who is chosen to lead the parade. The choice of the grand marshall is a reflection of the contribution of one Costa Rican to the country. Past marshalls have included famous Ticos Claudia Paul, an Olympic Costa Rican swimmer and up and coming talent Maria Jose Castillo.
Costa Ricans will begin to stake out their spots along the parade route in the early afternoon to ensure they don’t miss any of the festivities. There will also be prizes for categories such as the best float and best performing band. The parade is truly spectacular and features elaborate floats that reflect Costa Rican culture and the holiday season.
Music bands are also a highlight of the parade. Bands from high schools and primary schools prepare for the parade a year in advance hoping to capture the coveted prize of being the best band in the parade. Costumes and music and performance are judged to determine the ultimate band. This is a competition that is taken seriously by its partipants. It is also a great way to experience the young talent Costa Rica has.
You don’t want to miss this event if you are in Costa Rica. The Festival de la Luz has received international attention with coverage on newscasts worldwide. It is truly an opportunity to see some of the best culture, music and costumes Costa Rica is known for. The evening will be capped off with a fireworks display and if you are on a Costa Rica vacation right now, drop everything and head to San Jose. You won’t be disappointed!
Posted By Costa Developers
