Costa Rica boasts a rich culture and a host of celebrated traditions. Among these, El Tope is one of the country’s most popular festivals. Held annually in the capital city of San Jose, this national celebration is a vibrant and colorful parade that draws together horse enthusiasts from across Costa Rica.
Rich In History
Originally a military horse parade in the early 19th century, El Tope has evolved into a celebration of the country’s equestrian traditions. Today, it is an important event on the Costa Rican calendar, attracting thousands of visitors from near and far.
The heart of El Tope is its horse parade, which typically takes place in the afternoon and extends well into the night. Dressed in traditional attire, riders from across Costa Rica come together for this festive occasion, adorning their horses with colorful decorations that create an electric atmosphere.
If you're heading out for an adventure, you're going to need some cold watch and snacks. Pick up a backpack cooler, which has ample room for what you'll need while you enjoy the beach. There is an added benefit of freeing up your hands to carry the fun stuff!
Food And More
Food is also a key part of the festival, with traditional Costa Rican dishes available for visitors to enjoy. Among the most popular are gallo pinto, a rice and beans dish, and chifrijo, which combines rice, beans, pork, and avocado. And, of course, visitors can indulge in a range of local drinks, including guaro, a beloved Costa Rican liquor.
El Tope is more than just a horse parade, however. It is a celebration of Costa Rican culture, with live music and dance performances complementing the horse parade. Arts and crafts vendors also offer handmade pottery, clothing, and other traditional items.
A family-friendly event, El Tope offers plenty of entertainment for children, too. Alongside the horse parade, carnival rides and games provide hours of fun, creating opportunities for families to bond and experience the richness of Costa Rican culture together.
Check It Out In Playas del Coco
El Tope is an exciting and colorful national festival that celebrates Costa Rican equestrian traditions and cultural heritage. The horse parade is the highlight of the event, but visitors can also enjoy traditional food, music, dance performances, and arts and crafts vendors. It is a family-friendly occasion, offering a unique opportunity to experience the richness of Costa Rican culture. If you are planning a visit to Costa Rica, be sure to schedule your trip around El Tope, and enjoy this lively celebration of equestrian culture.
If you’re vacationing in Guanacaste in late January be sure to check out this awesome event.
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