Published on Saturday, December 27, 2025
By the A.M. Costa Rica staff

About 3,000 riders took part Friday in Costa Rica’s National Tope horse parade in the canton of San Ramón, in Alajuela Province, marking National Horse Rider Day.

The Tope is one of Costa Rica’s most anticipated year-end traditions, drawing thousands of spectators who line the streets to watch the parade.

According to the Municipality of Alajuela, this year marked the first time the country’s most important horse parade was held in Alajuela province, after the Municipality of San José did not approve the event. The tradition dates back to the early 1900s and has historically taken place in the capital.

 

The parade began at 1 p.m. at the Guillermo Vargas Roldán Stadium and traveled about one kilometer along Alajuela’s main avenue before ending at the San Ramón Catholic Church.

Along the route, attendees also enjoyed a community fair featuring cultural activities, live music, stands offering traditional food, and a playground for children.

Beyond the equestrian exhibition, the Tope also includes a charitable component. A portion of the proceeds from riders’ registration fees is donated each year.

This year’s donation went to the Asociación de Desarrollo Integral de Piedades Sur, one of the canton’s oldest organizations. The group focuses on educational activities and book donations for low-income children in Alajuela.

With a festive atmosphere, striking horses and large crowds, Costa Rica’s Tope horse parade remains a celebration rich in energy and tradition, authorities said.

A few weeks earlier, San José hosted the Christmas Lights Festival, another event that has become one of Costa Rica’s most cherished holiday traditions.

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Should Costa Rica once again hold the event in San José? We would like to know your thoughts on this story. Send your comments to news@amcostarica.com