Published on Monday, December 23, 2024
By the A.M. Costa Rica staff

Get ready to dust off your cowboy hats! The Tope Nacional, or horse parade, will be held in San Pedro de Montes de Oca Canton, San José, on Thursday, Dec. 26, in celebration of National Horse Riders Day.

The Tope parade is one of Costa Rica's most anticipated and beloved year-end traditions.

According to the Municipality of San Pedro, which organizes the extravaganza, around 2,000 horse riders and thousands of spectators are anticipated to line the streets to witness the parade.

The horse parade is set to begin at noon from the Rotonda Bandera, a roundabout situated between Negritos Street and Dent Boulevard. It will then proceed through the main city routes, eventually reaching the Hispanidad Fountain between the Circunvalación Route and Second Avenue.

The Ministry of Public Works and Transportation (MOPT) has announced road closures along the parade route starting at 7 a.m. on Thursday to allow workers to set up platforms for TV stations and public seating along the festival's main route.

Authorities advise drivers to avoid the parade route. Transit officers will be on hand to redirect traffic to designated alternative routes around the restricted areas.

The municipality also stated that liquor sales and consumption will be prohibited in all public areas along the parade route.

The celebration is expected to draw thousands of attendees, with around one million people tuning in to watch the parade on television. The event will be broadcast live on local TV stations 6, 7, 8, and 13 starting at noon.

The police have provided several safety tips for those attending the parade:

• Obtain the rider’s permission before petting or taking photos with the horse.

• Do not tug on the horse’s gear.

• Avoid feeding the horse.

• Leave your pets at home, as the crowds and loud noises may overwhelm them.

• Wear sunscreen.

• Dress comfortably in appropriate clothing and shoes, and bring a sweater, umbrella, or raincoat.

• Bring a disposable water bottle.

• Pack plenty of food, including sandwiches, snacks, and fruit, especially if you're with children.

• Write the name and phone number of the responsible adult inside the child's clothing in case they get separated in the crowd.

• Attend with a group, ideally with one adult per child.

• Research the parade route, ideal viewing spots near restrooms, and parking options.

• Plan your schedule to ensure timely arrival.

• If you're bringing a toddler, consider packing a stroller to avoid carrying them or dealing with a tired child.

• Avoid carrying valuables such as jewelry, expensive cameras, or branded devices.

• Use public transportation, such as buses or taxis, as parking spaces are limited, and parking on public roads is illegal.

With a vibrant atmosphere, beautiful horses, and festive crowds, Costa Rica's Tope horse parade is a celebration full of energy and tradition, authorities noted.

A couple of weeks ago, the Christmas Lights Festival took place in San José City, becoming one of Costa Rica's most cherished holiday traditions.

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Have you had the chance to attend Costa Rica's Tope? We would like to know your thoughts on this story. Send your comments to news@amcostarica.com