© Bruce Thomson
Independence Day of Costa Rica is celebrated on September 15. The holiday commemorates the end of Spain's colonial rule over Central America, the adoption of Costa Rica's first constitution, and the first elections, which took place in 1821.
Throughout the country, Independence Day is celebrated with marches, patriotic parades, and the raising of the national flag. Festivities begin on September 14th with the carrying of the Freedom Torch, which usually starts at 6 pm. It's followed by the Lantern Parade or Desfile de Faroles. Traditionally, children walk on streets holding handmade faroles or lanterns. The parade takes place in many towns around Costa Rica, in particular, in Parque Central in San José.
