Tope National Horse Parade
You've heard of the Thanksgiving Day Parade and the Santa Claus Parade, but I bet you're not familiar with the Tope National Horse Parade. This important event inaugurates the Festejos Populares, and is one of the most highly anticipated events of the Costa Rican calendar. So just what is it? Well, the Tope Parade is a horse parade, which is a typical tradition at all Costa Rican fiestas. The San Jose Tope is the most famous of these parades as well as the largest in all of Costa Rica. Thousands of riders come from all over the country to participate in this impressive show of patriotism, and now travelers in Costa Rica car rentals can too. Plan to catch the upcoming Tope National Horse Parade during your visit to Costa Rica.
The tradition continues
The tradition of the Tope Parade began back in colonial times. Originally, the festivity was a horse-racing and bull-fighting event. Every year, residents of cities and villages would come out and watch the best jockeys compete for the right to say their horse was the fastest in the land. While the tradition was established by Spaniards, the Tope has now evolved into something uniquely Costa Rican. Instead of racing the horses of the city, the locals proudly parade their prize beasts through the streets for all to enjoy. Horse owners, trainers and farm workers from all over the country travel to the capital for this special even; travelers in Costa Rica car rentals will be treated to an impressive display of showmanship as the horses perform specially choreographed routines.
Let's celebrate
Travelers in Costa Rica car rentals are invited to join in the festivities at the Tope National Horse Parade as the city of San Jose celebrates their heritage. The Tope marks the National Day of the Horseman in Costa Rica, and is held annually on December 26th. Aside from the horse parade, travelers in Costa Rica car rentals will also see many different “carretas”, or hand-painted ox carts, on hand at the festival. Riders dress to impress during the festival, so key your eyes peeled for brightly ornamented “Ticos”. The girls will be wearing flashy cowgirl outfits, while the men will be decked out in full cowboy attire.
Follow the Tope route
The Tope Parade begins every year around 1pm. The route, which is about 4 miles long, takes over the entire Paseo Colon and Avenida Segunda. During the Tope, travelers in Costa Rica car rentals are not permitted to drive along the route, and many of the city's narrow streets are closed to traffic. This really is for the best however, as thousands of spectators will be crowding the streets in order to catch a glimpse of the proceedings. Music will also be blaring from storefronts and balconies throughout the day, as local TV cameras focus in on the vibrant colors and festive happenings. If you're planning on coming out to watch the Tope, Avanti Costa Rica Car Rentals highly suggests getting to the Paseo Colon early - people will begin lining the streets at dawn in order to secure a front row viewing space.
Tailgating - Costa Rica style
Spectators often describe the Tope Parade as a gigantic tailgating party, only here, the players (or riders) participate in all of the pre-game fun! Travelers in Costa Rica car rentals will enjoy their favorite chilled birras or drink during the festivities, as well as some mouth-watering Costa Rican cuisine.
If you've visited Costa Rica before, but haven't had the chance to experience the Tope National Horse Parade, now's your opportunity. To learn more about the Tope National Horse Parade, visit the Costa Rica Tourism and Travel Bureau website at www.costaricabureau.com.