Topes, Twirls, and Tradition in Liberia Fiestas

By Beach Times Staff

The Liberia fiestas spun into the Guanacaste this week in a kaleidoscopic whirl of music, dancing, and folkloric colors.

© Zoraida Diaz

The parties kicked off last Wednesday and continued through the weekend with marches including a bull parade, Guanacaste traditions-themed parade, and masked parade. Saturday evening, the newly revamped Liberia Mía soccer team squared off against San José’s Saprissa (3-2, Sap) and later a fireworks display exploded over the Cuidad Blanca.

Other festivities included presentations by dance group Siempre Joven, Zapandí, Korporación, theatre troupe Chico Loco, and the Dominican pop bachata star Aventura.

© Zoraida Diaz

Although famed killer bull El Malacrianza was injured — sparing participants the gore much anticipated by spectators — Hacienda La Nueva Esperanza sent other creatures just as fierce (as evidenced below when one plowed into a crowd of people, tossing one cowboy over his head).

© Zoraida Diaz

Activities will continue this weekend with folkloric dance group Flor de Caña, Aroma de Café, a dance in the park by Los Hiscos, a walk of the donkeys; youth bull riding, a concert by La Patrulla 5, and Los Cumbiamberos, among others.

Parties will last through Sunday, March 9.

© Zoraida Diaz

In addition to Liberia, there will be typical fiestas this weekend in Lorena and Playa Potrero in Santa Cruz.