Independence

On September 15^th, Costa Rican celebrates its independence from Spain. Festivities start the night of the 14^th at 6pm with the lantern parade. People participate in civic acts watching typical dances and singing the National Anthem and other traditional anthems as Patriótica Costarricense and September 15^th anthem. After the civic acts, children around the country walk on the streets carrying small red, white, and blue lanterns called "faroles". These lanterns represent the messenger who carried the news on horseback through Central America lighting his way with the lantern.

Next day, on September 15^th, there are different activities. Schools have civic acts and organize school parades with bands. There is a big patriotic celebration on the streets on this day.