In an ironic twist after two years of restrictions, Costa Ricans were finally free to celebrate Independence Day in Costa Rica once more. 

This year, 2022, marks 201 years of Independence for the proud little country. In 1821, Costa Rica, along with her other Central American brethren, became free from Spanish rule and established itself as an independent country. 

In the modern day, September is known as “El Mes de la Patria” or the Month of the Homeland. Costa Rican flags appear all over the place as Ticos prepare to celebrate one of the most important holidays in Costa Rican culture. 

Let’s take a quick look at how Ticos continue to celebrate their independence 201 years later…

The History of Costa Rican Independence

Following the elusive promise of gold, the Spanish came to Costa Rica and other countries in Central America. The region was under their rule from 1563 to 1821. 

In the early 1800s, Spain’s attention was drawn by the Peninsula War and Napolean Bonaparte’s invasions in Europe. 

Taking advantage of Spain’s weakened position, Central American countries began to fight for their own freedom. In February of 1821, Mexico declared its independence with “El Plan de Iguala.” The Southern states of Chiapas and Oaxaca soon followed suit. 

Next, a Central American congress in Guatemala declared Central America’s independence on September 15, 1821. This included Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica. 

Of course, news traveled much more slowly back then than it does today. Thus, it wasn’t until later that the news reached Costa Rica. Her leaders gathered on October 25, 1821 to discuss the future. 

On October 29, 1821, they affirmed the decision to declare Costa Rica’s independence as well. 

In 1848, 27 years later, the elected Chief of State, José María Castro Madriz, declared that Costa Rica’s independence would be celebrated on September 15. This coincides with the celebrations in the rest of Central America.

The Independence Torch

Celebrations begin with the journey of the independence torch. A relay of runners carries the torch all the way from Guatemala to Costa Rica’s colonial capital, Cartago. 

This is to represent the news of their independence traveling throughout Central America. Though not many people are aware, the torch was declared to be a symbol of patriotic freedom in 2005.

This year, over 20,000 students took turns running with the torch, bringing the fire of freedom from Guatemala to Costa Rica. It takes 15 days for the torch to travel 1300 kilometers every September. 

The Lantern Parade

On the eve of the Independence Day celebrations, kids and their families throng the streets with store-bought or homemade lanterns. This “Desfile de Faroles” is meant to honor the bravery of Guatemalan woman Maria Dolores Bedoya.

The story goes that on the night of September 14, she took to the streets, encouraging others to join her. The crowd that joined her gathered in the plaza in front of the government building, singing patriotic songs as they waited for their leaders’ decision. 

Independence Day Parades

The next morning, everyone takes to the streets again to celebrate Independence Day itself. Schoolchildren dress in traditional costumes, march in marching bands, and twirl batons. Some groups dress up as exotic Costa Rican animals and carry signs sporting Costa Rican ecological ideals. 

Vendors appear in the streets with traditional foods like empanadas, pinches, or tamales for people to enjoy. Dancers wearing traditional costumes show off the traditional folk dances of Costa Rica. 

There’s a lot of creativity, a lot of noise, and a lot of red, white, and blue. 

Costa Rica’s flag sports the proud colors that are dear to her neighbors to the North as well. 

• Red: Represents the blood shed in defense of this proud country as well as the generosity of the Costa Rican people.
• Blue: The color of clear skies represents perseverance and opportunities, in other words, Costa Rican idealism.
• White: Represents peace.

Independence Day in Costa Rica

Though the main Independence Day celebration happens on September 15, it is really a month-long celebration. 

If you visit during this time you will find the flag flying outside many homes and businesses. Plus, you’ll see red, white, and blue banners decorating the streets and every corner of this beautiful country. 

And when you meet a Tico, be sure to wish them a “feliz mes de la patria!” I guarantee you’ll get a smile out of them! 

Do you love Costa Rica as much as I do? Be sure to check out my souvenir shop full of Costa Rica-inspired designs on practical items!

Until next time…

Until next time…

Cara