Today I took my usual daily walk through downtown Heredia to Santa Lucía and then home. While downtown I couldn’t help notice the festive atmosphere which filled the air. The city was buzzing with the high energy of the people. The colors red, white and blue of Costa Rica’s emblazoned houses, stores and parks. Children and adults rushed to get a view of the annual Independence Day parade which works its way through the center of the city. Their smiling faces reflected their pride in one of the country’s most celebrated holidays. Costa Rican’s are very proud of their peaceful history and national holidays.

Today, September 15, celebrates it’s 188th anniversary of Independence. The day is filled with civic activities that include parades of marching student bands in all cantones (districts) and barrios (neighborhoods). For weeks students have been practicing the drum beats that will be part of today’s tradition parades.The day is also a legal holiday, banks and most businesses are closed. Employees who are required to work today will be paid double their normal salary for the day. My son was anxious to get to work so he could make some extra money.

If you decide to live in Costa Rica either full or part-time you will have the chance to view one of the many parades and other events which mark Costa Rica’s numerous national holidays.