Annexation of Guanacaste 2023: Date, History, Facts, Activities

Annexation of Guanacaste Day is annually recognised on July 25. Also known as ‘Annexation of Nicoya Day’ or ‘La Anexión del Partido de Nicoya’, this event commemorates the 1824 annexation of Nicoya by Costa Rica from Nicaragua. Due to the civil unrest in Nicaragua at the time, Nicoya’s residents decided to conduct a referendum and choose annexation. The annexation was peaceful, and after the documents were signed, Guanacaste became part of Costa Rica, which the people of Guanacaste viewed as a positive development.

The background of Annexation of Guanacaste

Due to Nicaragua’s involvement in several civil conflicts at the time, the people of Guanacaste petitioned for their territory to be annexed by Costa Rica. The Central American Federation approved the annexation, and Guanacaste became a part of Costa Rica.

They have always had a close relationship with Costa Rica and are delighted to have been a part of its history. This is evidenced by the ubiquitous slogan “de la Patria por Nuestra Voluntad,” which translates as “part of our country by our own choice.” This voluntary annexation respects the fundamental democratic values of Costa Rica.

Annexation of Guanacaste Day is commemorated with a national holiday and a frenzy of celebratory activities and events, especially in the province of Guanacaste. Guanacaste Day is significant because all banks, government offices, post offices, and other commercial establishments are closed on public holidays.

In each and every city and hamlet across the nation, numerous events are held. These activities include, to mention a few, bullfights, street fiestas, folk dancing, flamboyant parades, horse pageants, and cattle shows. People of all races, genders, and ages celebrate and participate in the festivities in the streets. Although the festivities are scheduled to begin on July 25, they may last for several days.

ANNEXATION OF GUANACASTE ACTIVITIES

Celebrate with merriment

On this day, there will be parades, traditional dances, cattle shows, and much more to celebrate Guanacaste’s annexation. To participate in the festivities, you can study and imitate the two most popular dances of the occasion, the “Caballito Nicoyano” and the “Punto Guanacasteco.” You can also sway to the marimba, the national instrument.

Prepare a classic entrée

Guanacaste’s streets are lined with artisanal goods and traditional Costa Rican cuisine, including tamales and tortillas with barbecued meat. Put on your chef’s headwear and cook to learn more about the cuisine. You can even host a party to savour the food with your friends and family.

Observe a bullfight

Bullfights are a prevalent method of celebration. You can celebrate by witnessing a unique bullfight in the Tico style, in which young, unarmed males tease bulls and cows without harming them in an arena. The majority of the time, the men are dressed in humorous attire and competing for cash prizes or the amusement of the audience.

5 GUANACASTE and Costa Rica Facts

In recent decades, Guanacaste and Costa Rica have become significant producers of rice, sugar cane, sorghum, and other commodities.

Numerous ranches in the region also raise livestock.

Known as the ‘Gold Coast of Central America,’ it is one of the most prominent tourist destinations in Costa Rica.

Guanacaste’s population grew for many years, and it became a key economic contributor to Costa Rica.

Traditional delicacies such as ‘tortillas’ and ‘bizcochos,’ which resemble small, crunchy pastries, are among Guanacaste’s cultural contributions to Costa Rica.

ANNEXATION OF GUANACASTE DATES

Year	Date	Day
2023	July 25	Tuesday
2024	July 25	Thursday
2025	July 25	Friday
2026	July 25	Saturday
2027	July 25	Sunday