Annexation of Guanacaste Day
It marks the annexation of Guanacaste from Nicaragua in 1824. Guanacaste is rich in traditions and numerous cultural events are held in Nicoya throughout the year. Most celebrations have a religious background while others are testimony of national pride and folklore. No matter how solemn the event is, every celebration is a welcome opportunity for a party with native food, drinks and dancing to live music. Marimba is the most popular traditional music, usually played by three or four elderly men on a wooden xylaphone. The folkloric dance of Guanacaste is called Punto Guanacasteco and has become the national dance of Costa Rica.