Costa Rica, the happiest country on the planet!! (happy planet index, #1) a place to live the "pura vida", or pure life as Costa Ricans say in order to express they are having a great time or they have plenty of life. Ticos, as they like to be called are known for being friendly and peaceful people and they have proved the world with the abolition of their army in 1949, having more founds that they invest in health care programs, education and ecology programs. Costa Rica was part of the Spanish colony, thus the Language, religion and other cultural manifestations. The mayor culture contributions are given by the provinces of Guanacaste, a land of ganaderos (cowboys), great cuisine where corn products such as tamales, tortillas, empanadas and others are the highlight. Limon, in the Caribbean side, is the part of the country with the highest afro descendant concentration in the country. Their contributions to the tico culture are music like calypso, and delicious meals such as patí, Rondon and "rice and beans" where the coconut milk and ginger are a must have ingredient. "Vivan siempre el trabajo y la paz"
Baile típico
This typical dance was originated in the province of Guanacaste, province that has mayor influence over the country. It recalls the yesteryear Costa Rica, dressing the country men and women costumes. The songs talk about histories lived in the fields, romances, and religion. Nowadays is performed at schools, reunions, or celebrations during national holidays.
Bands and standard-bearers
The most important celebration for costa Ricans is their independence day, celebrated every September 15th, all the counties gather to celebrate it, parades include the intonation of the national anthem and songs allusive to the celebration. Bands of drums, lyres and cymbals accompanies the singers.