Costa Rica Events and Festivals

12/30/2008 - 1/02/2009Fiesta de los Diablitos

This ethnic festival of the indigenous natives of the south of the country recreates a fight to the death between the Indians (Diablitos) and the invading Spaniards. The tradition goes back to colonial times and has been passed down from generation to generation. Native traditions, customs, and beliefs are much in evidence. The battle is stylised, with masked and costumed "Diablitos" taking on a bull, which represents the Spanish. Amid much ceremony and play acting, accompanied by flutes, drums, guitars, violins and accordions, the bull eventually meets a gory end in the centre of the village. The meat is offered for sale and there are craft stalls and fireworks to add to the festive occasion