Semana Santa in Costa Rica!

Holy Week which is called Semana Santa in Spanish is a major religious holiday in Costa Rica.  
The celebrations begin on the weekend before Easter Sunday for a full week of music, singing and prayer.  Almost all businesses are closed during this week in honor of the celebration.  Daily processions celebrate Christ's path, including his death on Good Friday and resurrection on Easter Sunday. It is not unusual to see many processions where church groups dress in red and purple robes, carry large crosses or crucifixes, statues of the Virgin Mary and palm fronds and march through the streets.  These processions are taken very seriously with spectators lining the streets in mourning and prayer.


Having a full week off from work and school, the Ticos depart the city scene and head for a relaxing vacation at the beach!  It appears that Playa Bejuco is a very popular place.....in a matter of just a few days it filled up and changed from a quiet relaxing natural setting into a campground and tailgate picnickers haven!


The tables that were set up all along the beach road with beautiful lace cloths, the picture of Jesus, flowers and candles were an amazing site and caused pause for a moment of reflection.  It was not unusual to see them tending to the flowers of their displays to make sure they were fresh and made a lovely presentation. 

The Cruz Roja (Red Cross) also expected a crowd and were set up on the beach to assist in rescue of anyone that might find themselves in distress.  They were called the "Bay Watch of Costa Rica"!

This is just a sample of the wonderful pictures of the beautiful alter-like offerings and the happy families enjoying their holiday together.   Please visit our PURA VIDA PHOTO GALLERY to view the slideshow of this memorable week.

Feliz Semana Santa to all 
and may you enjoy a beautiful & blessed
Easter with your loved ones!

And as the Semana Santa holiday comes to a close and  Playa Bejuco 
returns to it's usual quiet, peaceful tranquil place for escape 
we will enjoy our memories of these wonderful people that are always 
there to greet you with a smile and hearty welcome to come 
and enjoy their beautiful country that they are so proud of.