The northern Pacific beach town of Playas del Coco will kick off Las Fiestas de Playas delCoco Jan. 25, with hopes of bringing together a growing and diverse population of Ticos and foreign residents.
The event, coordinated by the Playas del Coco Development Association (ADICOCO), will include live music, sports, bullfights, art and traditional craft exhibits, food and games. According to association vice-president Kristian Faérron, the festival helps “keep local traditions alive, while acting as a gathering point for local citizens and tourists.” Coordinators predict 15,000 people or more will attend the event over five days.
Highlights include the first annual Vuelta Ciclística de Playas del Coco, a 97-kilometer bike race open to professionals and amateurs along the already established Papagayo bike course, to be held Jan. 27. That same day, children can participate in a shorter course along the Playas del Coco boulevard.
On Jan. 28, two soccer tournaments, one for women and another for children under 17, will take place in the town soccer field. A traditional tope, or horse parade, begins at noon the same day. Activities are centered around the town bull ring and are scheduled to run through Jan. 29.
“Our area is growing fast,” Faérron said. “This event is important for Playas del Coco because it generates the resources ADICOCO needs to improve the area and promote good development.”
