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Costa Rica Culture Information
Click to enlargeCosta Rica culture and history comes from the grand variety of citizens from different countries who have become part of this diverse society. Read on for Costa Rica culture information and to find out about customs and traditions dear to the people from Costa Rica. Browse through the different categories for information on specific traditions or to get insights on Costa Rica life, people and land. Life in Costa Rica is laid back and relaxed, with a lot of emphasis placed on entertainment and open air activities. Cultural activities in the country include going to the theater, museums, libraries, and sports events. Football (soccer) is the favorite pastime of the people in Costa Rica, and fans are avid and fiercely loyal to their teams. When the country’s National Team plays, Costa Rica people flock to watch the games, and, in the event of a victory, they pour out onto the streets in celebration.
The Costa Rican population is made up mostly of whites and mestizos (a mix of whites and indigenous people). There are also a significant number of African descendants in the Caribbean coast, and their customs form a colorful and lively part of the country’s culture. “Ticos” are highly educated people (public schools and universities allow practically anyone to get ahead), yet they are very laid back and live by the popular credo of “ pura vida”, which literally translates into pure life. Although the women are highly liberated, this being a Hispanic nation, there are undertones of machismo in the society (although not to the extent of other Latin American countries); however, demonstrations of chivalry are welcomed by most females. The idea of the family unit is highly valued. Family life in Costa Rica is usually the center of social activities. Children usually live with their parents until they are married, and close extended families are very common, you may even see generations living together in the same house, one big happy family. Costa Ricans are extremely proud of their country, and they have several distinct symbols that identify them. Among them are the “ Guaria Morada” (national Costa Rica flower), the “Pabellon Nacional” (the country’s flag bearing the coat of arms), the “Yigüirro” (national Costa Rica bird), and the beautifully painted oxcarts, among others.
We offer you the chance to enjoy Costa Rica's culture firsthand through several of the day tours we offer. For example, if you are visiting the Guanacaste region, we highly recommend the Guaitil Pottery, Santa Cruz and Coope Tortilla tour, where you can have a closer look and at the food, art and local culture of this North Pacific coastal province. The Palo Verde expedition includes folk dancing or a visit to a local sugar cane processing plant, depending on the season. Get involved in the colorful diversity of Costa Rican culture on your next vacation to this beautiful Central American country.
