Tomorrow in Town we will celebrate Costa Rica’s National Holiday, September 15, Independence Day. On this date in 1821, the news arrived from Guatemala that the Central American provinces had declared independence from Spain. Costa Rica embraced freedom peacefully, opening the way to self-determination and the shaping of a sovereign nation.
Across the country, three traditions keep this history alive. On September 14, the Torch of Independence is carried each year from Guatemala through Central America, and the Lantern Parade takes place in plazas and schools, where children light the night with handmade faroles. On September 15, parades fill the streets with music from school and high school bands across the country, bringing together neighbors, families, children, and grandparents in a joyful celebration of unity and pride.
In Town, we will be honoring these traditions and joining in the celebration of Independence Day, just a few days early. Below you will find the full itinerary of activities planned in Town.
Celebrations will begin at 10 am with a Lantern Parade led by the children of Abriendo Mentes and Elif, starting at Plaza Mercado and continuing through Central, D’Aquí Design, Casa Brewer, Celeste, and Pura Vida Ride.
From 3 pm to 4 pm, the Torch Relay will take place, joined by 6th graders from Playa Potrero School and members of the Las Catalinas team, starting at the Potrero sports plaza and culminating in Plaza Mercado.
The afternoon continues with the Tempate Dance Group, live marimba, and traditional Costa Rican food at Plaza Mercado from 4 pm to 7 pm. Meanwhile, Center of Joy will offer chorreadas, gallos de papa con carne, and arracache from 3 pm to 5 pm, paired with freshly brewed black coffee, available throughout September.
Join us in Town for a joyful evening of music, dance, food, and community, as we celebrate Costa Rica’s Independence with pride and joy, honoring the freedom, sovereignty and democracy born from that historic decision more than two centuries ago.