25 July - Guanacaste Day

 

Guanacaste Day, known as "Anexión del Partido de Nicoya" in Spanish, is a national holiday in Costa Rica that commemorates the annexation of the province of Guanacaste. The holiday is celebrated annually on July 25th.

The annexation of Guanacaste took place on July 25, 1824, when the region, which was originally a part of Nicaragua, decided to join Costa Rica. At that time, Central America was undergoing significant political changes after gaining independence from Spain in 1821. Guanacaste chose to become a part of Costa Rica, mainly due to economic and political reasons, and this event marked the expansion of Costa Rica's territory.

Costa Ricans celebrate Guanacaste Day with various festivities, cultural events, parades, music, dancing, and traditional cuisine. It is a time for Costa Ricans to come together and express their national pride and unity. The day is also an opportunity for people to learn about the history and cultural heritage of Guanacaste, as well as its significance in the broader context of Costa Rican history.

In the province of Guanacaste, particularly in the city of Nicoya, the celebration is especially vibrant, with special ceremonies, street fairs, and the display of the Costa Rican flag and the flag of Guanacaste.

Guanacaste Day is not only a celebration of historical significance but also an occasion to appreciate the natural beauty and diversity of the Guanacaste region, known for its stunning beaches, lush forests, and rich biodiversity.

The holiday is a symbol of the enduring cultural and historical ties between Guanacaste and the rest of Costa Rica, reinforcing the unity and shared identity of the Costa Rican people.