Party like it’s 1996: Backstreet Boys captivate packed crowd at Parque Viva

More than 25 years after they were formed, the Backstreet Boys performed in Costa Rica for the first time.

Their Friday night show at Parque Viva in Alajuela began with a teaser: Though it was the Backstreet Boys’ inaugural appearance in Costa Rica, maybe the country won’t have to wait so long for the next one.

Then, for the next two hours, the five-man pop group showcased some of their biggest hits — “I Want It That Way,” “As Long as You Love Me,” and “Everybody (Backstreet’s Back),” among others — while featuring songs from their latest album, DNA.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

The Backstreet Boys visited Costa Rica for the first time, captivating a packed crowd at Parque Viva. #BSB

A post shared by The Tico Times (@theticotimes) on Feb 29, 2020 at 7:56am PST

The best-selling boy band of all time knew how to win over the crowd: They spoke in a mix of Spanish and English — dropping the Tico catchphrase, “pura vida” — and carried a Costa Rican flag.

Kevin Richardson received the biggest cheers of the night as he performed admirably despite suffering from vertigo.

As the lights went down after an enthralling performance, one thing was certain: If the Backstreet Boys indeed return to Costa Rica, they’ve earned a warm welcome back.