Festejos de Fin de Año de San José (Zapote)
This mega-fest in the eastern San José district of Zapote offers a little bit of everything. Find all types of food, the famed Tico-style bullfights in the Zapote rings, dozens of rides, temporary tattoos, parades, live music, giant bars, and many more activities.
Cultura Profética Concerts
Puerto Rican reggae band Cultura Profética will celebrate the holidays on Costa Rica’s most beautiful beaches. The band is offering two surprise-filled shows: Dec. 26 in Playa Dominical, Puntarenas, and Dec. 29 in Playas del Coco, Guanacaste.
The Tope
Costa Rica’s traditional “tope nacional” is the country’s biggest horse parade, part of the celebrations of the National Day of the Rider. A holiday tradition for many Ticos, it hosts approximately five thousand riders, decked out (as are their equine companions) in their finest, and more than one million viewers. During the event the most common outfit is blue jeans, a cowboy hat, boots and a plaid shirt.
Bullfights “Toros a la Tica”
While the Zapote bullring remains the traditional king of Tico-style bullfighting, the bullfights of Pedregal have drawn their own following in recent years: they feature a bull riding championship, rodeos, and more, with food and live music.
Yoga Festival
Recover from Christmas excesses at a daylong festival featuring yoga classes, meditation, lectures and healthy food.
Tour to Aquatic Park Villas Fantasia
This water-park tour includes transportation with air conditioning, park entrance, and lunch. Cost varies depends on the lunch package you choose.
Ice Hockey Classes
During December, a temporary outdoor ice rink has been built in La Sabana Park. On Satudays and Sundays, there will be ice hockey classes for people of all ages; for experienced players, games are being organized a few nights a week at 10 p.m.
Art Exhibit: “Under the Sun”
U.S. artist Cher Compton will unveil her latest exhibit, “Bajo el sol,” at Guanacaste’s Hidden Garden Art Gallery. Her paintings reflect the beauty of the simple elements that characterize Costa Rican life.
