Experience Costa Rica as it turns into a sea of red, white, and blue with rhythmic marching bands, glowing candlelit parades, and rich historic traditions.
On September 15th, Costa Rica erupts in patriotic fervor as the entire nation celebrates its independence from Spanish colonial rule with parades, fireworks, and street processions that transform towns and cities into seas of blue, white, and red. Schoolchildren carry torches in candlelit evening marches called the Desfile de Antorchas, their voices rising in national songs while communities gather to witness this deeply rooted ritual that has defined Costa Rican identity for nearly two centuries. The celebration weaves together civic pride and popular culture—marching bands, folkloric dancers in traditional dress, and impromptu street parties emerge alongside official ceremonies. Food vendors line the streets offering traditional sweets and savory snacks, while the air fills with the sounds of marimba and the energy of a nation reclaiming its history.
Witness candlelit evening torch marches called the Desfile de Antorchas on September 14, where schoolchildren carry flames through streets while singing national songs—a deeply rooted ritual that has defined Costa Rican identity for nearly two centuries. Join vibrant morning parades on September 15 across towns and cities featuring marching bands, folkloric dancers in traditional dress, and streets transformed into seas of blue, white, and red national colors. Experience the sensory richness of street food vendors offering traditional sweets and savory snacks like tamales, empanadas, arroz con pollo, and gallo pinto, while marimba music fills the air. Plan to arrive by September 14 to catch the Independence Torch relay's arrival in Cartago; note that official institutions, banks, and businesses close on September 15, so the entire nation participates in festivities.
How to Participate
Visitors can join the celebrations by attending the torch parade (Desfile de Antorchas) on the evening of September 14 in any town or city, or by gathering along parade routes on September 15 morning in major locations like San José (Avenida Segunda), Cartago (Plaza Mayor), or local municipal avenues. Street food vendors and informal gatherings welcome spectators; no formal registration is required. Families can participate in the festive atmosphere, watch performances, and enjoy traditional foods sold by vendors along the streets.
Best Time to Visit
Visit September 14–15 annually, when Costa Rica celebrates its independence from Spanish colonial rule. September 14 evening features the Desfile de Antorchas (torch parade) and the national anthem broadcast at 6:00 p.m., while September 15 hosts the largest civic parades across the country.
When to Experience
September 14–15 annually. September 14 evening features the Desfile de Antorchas (torch parade) and national anthem broadcast at 6:00 p.m. September 15 hosts civic and school band parades in nearly every town and city center across Costa Rica.
What to Expect
Cultural Etiquette
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the celebrations, including at parades, torch marches, and street gatherings. Use common courtesy when photographing people, particularly children in the Desfile de Antorchas.
Who This Is For
Costa Rica
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