Every year on October 12th, Costa Rica celebrates Día de las Culturas, also known as Columbus Day in the United States of America. In Spanish speaking countries and communities, it is often known as Día de la Raza, the Day of Race. This national holiday marks the anniversary of Christopher Columbus’s first journey, and the discovery of the Americas.

Since 1994, Costa Rica has changed the name of the official holiday from Día de la Raza to Día de las Culturas (Day of Culture). This change recognizes the mix of cultures which has contributed to the development and culture of Costa Rica. A diverse fusion of European, American, African and Asian influences shape Costa Rican, and Latin American, culture. Therefore, Día de las Culturas is now a celebration of the heritage, colonization, and cultural diversity that is found throughout Costa Rica.

This celebration in Costa Rica is a lively event. The province of Limón celebrates this day in the week prior to the 12th with a colorful carnival full of dancing and cultural demonstrations. Throughout Costa Rica, you may see dancing and singing, but for the full Día de la Culturas experience, Limón is the place to be. A good time is pretty much guaranteed, and it’s all in the name of history and the merging of cultures. Expect to see people lining the streets to watch and cheer on the “beauty queens,” marching bands and brightly colored costumes, along with very colorfully dressed and extremely coordinated dance troupes.

If traveling in Costa Rica during this time, tourists and locals go out into the streets and are greeted by a colorful mix of streamers, dancers and celebration. It is important to note that Día de la Culturas is a national holiday. Government offices, the post office and public schools will be closed.

Cafe Milagro blends local culture, delicious Costa Rican coffee, and traditional cuisine. Our independent coffee growers offer us the best coffees, and we proudly brew them at our restaurant in Manuel Antonio and roaster in Quepos.