Costa Rican Pride - Celebrating Independence in the Land of Pura Vida

Independence Day is coming up in Costa Rica, and it’s the perfect time to learn about Costa Rican customs and traditions. It is also a great opportunity to practice your Spanish and to learn the National Anthem. 

Every September 15th, the country celebrates its independence from Spain, and with this day comes a wealth of traditions and meaningful history. Here’s everything you need to know about the origins of this important day, along with some fun activities to do and local celebrations to watch out for!

History of the Torch:

The "Antorcha de la Libertad" or Torch of Liberty is a symbolic reenactment of the spread of independence across Central America in 1821. On September 15th, the torch is carried in a relay from Guatemala down to Costa Rica, symbolizing the arrival of the news of independence. Each year, students, runners, and even motorcycle groups follow the torch in a festive display of national pride as it makes its way through different regions.

Faroles and Their Meaning:

Faroles are handmade lanterns often created by children for the Desfile de Faroles (Lantern Parade) held on the eve of Independence Day, September 14th. These lanterns symbolize the walk towards freedom and are a nod to the journey taken by Costa Rica's ancestors who learned of their country's independence by lantern light. Schools often have farol-making activities and competitions leading up to this, and it's a beloved part of the celebration for children.

El Himno Nacional:

The Himno Nacional de Costa Rica (National Anthem) is another centerpiece of the celebrations. Originally composed in 1852, the anthem is a stirring call to unity and patriotism. It often accompanies ceremonies throughout the day, and it’s customary for the anthem to be played at 6 p.m. as the flag is raised across the country, marking the significance of Costa Rican independence.

Translation of the National Anthem - Music by Manuel María Gutiérrez (1852) and Lyrics by José María Zeledón Brenes (1903):

Noble homeland, your beautiful flag,

A symbol of the life it gives us;

Under the clear blue of your sky,

White and pure, peace rests.

In the tenacious struggle of fruitful work,

That reddens the face of mankind,

Your children—simple farmers—won

Eternal prestige, respect, and honor.

Hail, oh gentle land!Hail, oh loving mother!

When anyone tries to tarnish your glory,

You will see your people, brave and strong,

Turn their simple tools into weapons.

Hail, oh homeland! Your generous soil

Gives us sweet shelter and sustenance;

Under the clear blue of your sky,

May work and peace always thrive!

Traditional Clothing:

Costa Ricans often wear traditional clothing during the celebrations. Women typically wear brightly colored skirts with white embroidered tops, while men wear white shirts, red sashes, bandanas, and wide-brimmed hats. Celebrations often follow the flag's colors, including traditional music and dancing. The clothes' styles reflect the country's agricultural roots and honor the traditions of the 19th-century campesinos (farmers). 

Bombas:

While bombas are more commonly associated with the Guanacaste province and fiestas patronales, they are often recited during Independence Day celebrations as well. Bombas are short, witty rhymes or sayings shouted out in celebrations, usually expressing pride or joy and encouraging laughter among the crowd.

Freddy’s Tours, the best in town,

He’ll show you Costa Rica, up and down!

Nature’s calling, don’t be slow,

Book your spot or miss the show!

¡Bomba!

Typical Foods:

Independence Day celebrations wouldn’t be complete without some typical Costa Rican foods! Families gather to enjoy dishes like gallo pinto (rice and beans), arroz con pollo (chicken and rice), and tamales. Street vendors often sell snacks like empanadas, while desserts like cajeta and arroz con leche can also be enjoyed during the festivities.

Gallo Pinto is one of Costa Rica's most iconic and beloved dishes, usually enjoyed for breakfast. It's a hearty mix of rice and beans with flavorful seasonings, often served alongside eggs, tortillas, or sour cream.

Here’s a basic recipe and instructions for making Costa Rican Gallo Pinto:

• 2 cups of cooked white rice (preferably leftover rice)

• 1 ½ cups of cooked black beans (with some of the bean broth/liquid)

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 small red bell pepper, finely chopped

• 2 cloves of garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil

• 1 tablespoon of Salsa Lizano (a Costa Rican seasoning sauce)

• Cilantro, chopped (optional)

Torch Relay and Motorcycle Tradition:

In recent years, Costa Ricans have added a modern twist to the torch relay, with motorcycle riders following the torch from border to border. These riders symbolize unity and the importance of Costa Rican independence. Motorcyclists ride alongside or ahead of the torchbearers as it crosses from Nicaragua into Costa Rica.

National Flower: Guaria Morada

The Guaria Morada, a type of orchid, was designated as Costa Rica's national flower in 1939. This beautiful, purple-hued orchid is a symbol of beauty, purity, and peace, deeply cherished by Costa Ricans for its association with good fortune and familial unity.

Historically, the Guaria Morada holds cultural significance, often linked with traditional Costa Rican celebrations. The flower is not only admired for its aesthetic beauty but also for its resilience, which Costa Ricans see as a reflection of their nation's strength and spirit. Orchids are abundant in the Costa Rican landscape, particularly in forested regions, and their vibrant blooms bring the tropical scenery to life.

National Bird: Yigüirro

The Yigüirro or Clay-Colored Thrush was declared the national bird of Costa Rica in 1977. This seemingly modest brown bird has gained national recognition due to its melodic singing, which signals the arrival of the rainy season. The bird’s song is often heard in the early mornings during the transition from the dry season to the rainy season, which is crucial for Costa Rican agriculture.

The Yigüirro holds a special place in the hearts of Costa Ricans. Its connection to rain, a vital element for the country's biodiversity and agricultural health, has earned it a revered status. Moreover, its frequent presence in gardens and rural areas makes it a familiar companion to the everyday life of many Costa Ricans.

Suggestions for What to Do:

If you’re in Costa Rica on Independence Day, a great way to immerse yourself in the celebration is by watching a farol presentation or even making one yourself! Most communities hold desfiles (parades) on September 14th and 15th, often organized by schools and municipalities. Check with your local municipality for announcements or visit the local plaza to catch a glimpse of the festivities. If you want to get involved, grab some craft supplies and follow a farol-making guide to join in the tradition!