Parrita Mule Festival 2025 in Costa Rica

The Costa Rican Mule Festival, held annually in Parrita, celebrates the country’s cultural heritage, particularly its reliance on mules throughout history. This lively event features mule and horse races, tractor rallies, and agricultural exhibitions. Originally focused on honoring the mule, a key part of Costa Rican life, it has grown into a much larger celebration, showcasing the region’s farming traditions and spirit.

Main Events

The Costa Rican Mule Festival kicks off with a vibrant parade through Parrita’s streets, where mules are dressed in bright flowers, ribbons, and detailed harnesses, creating a stunning visual display. The lively atmosphere is enhanced by music and the sounds of clanging bells. A key event is the mule race, held at the mulódromo, where the strength, speed, and agility of the mules are tested. This exciting competition sees riders clinging to their mules as they race at full speed, with the winner being celebrated with a ribbon and applause from the enthusiastic crowd.

Entertainment

The Costa Rican Mule Festival in Parrita offers a wide variety of activities beyond the mule race. Highlights include riding competitions, the crowning of Miss Parrita, dances, craft shows, livestock and agricultural exhibitions, and local fair food. The festival’s lively atmosphere is enriched by the vibrant La Mulita Alegre bar. Attendees can indulge in traditional Costa Rican foods such as tamales, gallo pinto, and casado, while enjoying live music performances, including marimba bands, throughout the event.

History of the Festival

The Costa Rican Mule Festival, which started in 1989, began as a mule race between farm workers. Initially held at the Esterillos airfield, it was later moved to Parrita by Aristides Porras. The festival honors the mule, a vital part of Costa Rican history, once used to transport goods and people across the country’s rugged terrain.