COSTA RICA NEWS – By Henry Morales Navarro, Vozdeguanacaste – Nicoya welcomed the opening ceremonies of the festival commemorating the 190th anniversary of Costa Rica’s annexation of the District of Nicoya.
On the night of Tuesday, July 22, the streets of the canton were lit up with electronic signs alluding to the annexation.
A parade of bands began at 6:30 p.m., leaving from the courthouse and finishing at the colonial plaza.
Twelve bands provided music, color and dancing, including the Ojoche Dance Company, the Nicoya Colonial Band, the Nicoya High School Band and others. Hundreds of people filled the sidewalks to see the spectacle.
Miguel Angel Zelaya, a member of the city’s culture committee, was satisfied by the public’s participation. “I am surprised by the large number of people who came out to the streets to enjoy the parade; I’ve come on other occasions but this time the number of people surprised me,” said Zelaya.
Guillermo Manzanares, a retired music teacher, applauded the organization. “It’s great that they organize this kind of event every year. This year they found good bands and it’s great to have this spectacle in Nicoya; it’s a boost for the young musicians.”
For her part, Carmen Lia Juarez, president of the culture commission, took the chance to invite the public to attend the festivities scheduled for the week.
“We invite all Guanacastecans to come and celebrate the annexation festival with great pride, as well as those who visit from outside the province. Here they will find great hospitality, human warmth and a show of well-known cultural groups and a lot of Costa Rican folklore.”
The festivities continue today, Wednesday, with a marimba concert in Recaredo Briceño park at noon. Ceremonial acts will follow at 6 p.m. and fireworks will be displayed at 7 p.m.
