TUESDAY JULY 25, 2023.

Pura Vida in Guanacaste  

July 25th is a special date that commemorates the annexation of the Nicoya Península to Costa Rica. Nearly 200 years have passed, but the peaceful history of Costa Rica continues, influencing the way of life of all who reside in and visit our beautiful country.  

If you’ve visited, you have heard the country’s unofficial slogan “Pura Vida” which can be translated to, “The Good Life”. This phrase is a representation of the idea of well-living, which is very much how spending time in Guanacaste feels. The principals of well-living at Las Catalinas BeachTown are deeply rooted in the practices that research shows lead to longer life expectancy and happiness, but furthermore, the essence of what Costa Rica lifestyle truly is. 

Nicoya Joins Costa Rica 

The name “Nicoya” comes from "Necoc Īāuh,", from the indigenous language Nahuatl. This translates to "on both sides its water(s)”, referring to the Nicoya Peninsula's location between two major rivers. It was a thriving community, the largest on Costa Rica’s pacific coast, when it was discovered by explorer Gil Gonzalez Dávila 

In the year 1824, Nicoya´s annexation to the province of Guanacaste was confirmed by way of a peaceful vote to join Costa Rica. Prior to this year, Guanacaste was considered part of neighboring country, Nicaragua. Guanacaste very much has its own identity, food, and even music, separating it culturally from other provinces in Costa Rica, which could be influenced by its ties to Nicaragua. 

Celebration of Culture 

Every July 25th, cultural events take place in communities across the country, but with extra pride in Guanacaste. Most of what is today's modern day Guanacaste is the Nicoya Península, and the peaceful union by vote is a moment of pride for those from the region.  It is even sometimes called “Guanacaste Day”. 

 
Take in some Costa Rican culture with us today as we celebrate the Anexión of Nicoya with a local historian, a traditional fair with Costa Rican dance, treats, and games. The fun starts at 10 AM, all are welcome to participate.