Christmas in Costa Rica
commences with Festival de la Luz, when the capital city of San Jose is
transformed into a garland of lights. A night time parade made beautiful with
thousands of Christmas lights and many oxcarts converted into spectacular works
of art. This parade is a favorite of the people.
As with many Catholic
nations, nativity scenes with figurines of Mary, Joseph, the wise men and the
animals of the manger are a standard Christmas decoration, called “Portals”.
Offerings such as fruits and little toys are placed in front of the nativity
scene. The baby Jesus figurine is placed in the nativity the night before
Christmas, when he brings presents to the children of the household in lieu of
Santa Claus.
Every evening from December 16th to
December 24th, Las Posadas begins. This activity symbolizes the
journey made by Mary and Joseph before they reached the stable inn where the
infant Jesus was born. Homes in Costa Rica have a nativity scene and the hosts
of the Posada act as the innkeepers. Carols and songs are sung from house to
house until they reach the home, or church, which has agreed to host a party.
Tamale is a
dish that cannot be missed for Christmas dinner; a dish made of
cornmeal dough (called masa) filled with meats, rice, different vegetables like
carrot or sweet pepper and fruits like raisins or plums. Tamales are wrapped in
corn husks or banana leaves, steamed, and served hot. Can be accompanied by
a Dark Coffee or "Agua Dulce".
Most households
also consume a delicious drink called "Rompope" which is made with cream and Guaro "Cacique".
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