Condor Kristen: Semana Santa, Hello Torro, Loco

Semana Santa translates to “Holy Week.” It is widely celebrated throughout Central America and occurs the week leading up to Easter. In fact, some countries and areas of Costa Rica have two weeks off from school and work, so it should really be “Dos Semanas Santa.” Just like in the states, when people have off from work and school and the weather is gorgeous, everyone flocks to beaches. Semana Santa was no different than Memorial Day or 4th of July, the beaches were packed and the fiestas were plenty.

Semana Santa kicked off with the rodeo, which was in town from Thursday, March 29th – Monday, April 2nd. The difference with rodeos in Costa Rica as opposed to the states is that the crowd is welcome to jump in the ring with the torro. Yes, you read that right, those there to “watch” the rodeo actually participate in it. They run around the ring and taunt the torro to provoke an attack. Most of the time when the bull is ready to pounce, the men jump up on the corral to avoid contact. But in some instances, they aren’t so lucky. Most rodeos do not allow women to go in the ring, however, I have heard of instances where they have.

Another interesting fact about Semana Santa is that for 48 hours, from Holy Thursday through Good Friday, restaurants, bars and markets cannot serve alcohol. There were even people hired to stand guard by the liquor areas of the markets so no one could indulge. However, since I do live in a beach town, this did not stop the partying. On Wednesday night, it was a rush at the bars and markets until midnight, and then the other nights everyone goes to the beach or the bars with their own liquor and has a darn good time. And on Friday night, around 11PM, DJs play in the streets and crowds gather for the bars to start selling liquor again at the stroke of midnight. It was so interesting to be a part of. The point of not serving alcohol, I thought, was because of the religious meaning of the chosen days and of the Holy week. However, like young children, when you tell people they cant have something, they want it more! And more there was; during the “dry time,” there was even more outrageousness than during “drinking time.”

Easter Sunday, I decided to end my Semana Santa by going to mass at the Church behind my casa. What a great experience that was as well! It was extremely interesting and great for my progression with the Spanish language to attend church in Español. My favorite part of mass was when we gave peace to those surrounding us. In the states, you simply shake a few hands and give hugs to your family. But because this culture is so loving and affectionate, the entire Church hugged or held both of your hands to bless you. What a beautiful site and a great way to end my first holy week here in Costa Rica.

Ciao!