HomeTopicsArts and CultureRiders, Traditions, and Festivities: Costa Rica's Annual Tope Parade in San José

Riders, Traditions, and Festivities: Costa Rica’s Annual Tope Parade in San José

Costa Rica’s annual holiday tope, or horse parade, takes place on Dec. 26 along San José’s Second Avenue and Paseo Colón.

Thousands of riders and their equine companions came from different corners of Costa Rica to show off their best riding styles, saddles and outfits. Ticos lined the streets decked out in cowboy hats, jeans and boots to watch the spectacle. Many brought beach chairs, stools, food and drinks to comfortably enjoy the four-hour parade.

Here’s a look in photos:

Trending Now

Costa Rican Lawmakers Reject Minute of Silence for Man Who Died in ICE Custody

Costa Rica's Legislative Assembly yesterday rejected a motion to hold a minute of silence for Carlos Josué Marchena, a Costa Rican man who died...

Who is behind Costa Rica’s proposed AI data centers?

Two AI data centers seek vast power and water in Costa Rica. Who is financing them is still unknown.

Dollar Rebounds From Record Low but Year-End Could Favor the Colón Again

The dollar hit its highest level since June after a record low, but seasonal inflows could push it back down. Here is what banks are paying.

Costa Rica Pilot Faces Discipline After Aviation Safety Criticism

Costa Rican police pilot David Damazzio Fernández faces possible suspension or dismissal over media comments about aviation safety oversight and criticism posted on social media.

Costa Rica Population Could Begin Shrinking Earlier Than Expected

Costa Rica's population could begin shrinking earlier than previously expected as the number of children being born continues to fall faster than population experts...

OAS Countries Seek October Meeting to Consider Measures Against Nicaragua

A group of five countries in the Organization of American States (OAS) is proposing that the region’s foreign ministers meet on October 2 to...

Costa Rica El Niño Plan Warns of Major Water Supply Risks

Costa Rica is preparing for possible water shortages affecting hundreds of thousands of people as the strong El Niño weather pattern continues to reduce...

Costa Rica Ranks Fifth in the World for Retirees in Global Relocation Index

Costa Rica ranks 20th out of 192 countries and territories in the 2026 Global Relocation Index, and fifth in the world for retirees, according...

Costa Rica’s Laguna Río Cuarto Loses Visitor Services

Laguna Río Cuarto will remain accessible, but the community organization managing the Costa Rica attraction will stop providing visitor services beginning September 28.
🌴 The Weekly Pura Vida

Costa Rica, Once a Week

The week's top stories, weather & insider tips — delivered every Sunday. One email, zero clutter.

🔒 Free. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.

Loading…

Latest News from Costa Rica

Costa Rica Coffee Maker Chorreador
Costa Rica Car Rentals
Costa Rica Travel Insurance
Costa Rica Travel