My favorite two events include the running of the torch and the "Desfile de los faroles," (Lantern Parade). They are both symbolic events to represent the sharing of the news of independence back in 1821.
The running of the torch has taken place for many years, leading up to September 15 - people take turns running part of the trek with the torch across Central America. The oldest class in our school, "undécimo" (11th grade), represents us and runs with it, starting at about 11:00 pm.
Our family sleeps through that event, but we have participated both years in the "Desfile de los faroles," on September 14. Lots of families parade together through Santa Elena (and other communities throughout Costa Rica) at dusk. Children can make faroles or buy them, and that is our favorite part! This year Carlo made a rabbit out of a milk box and it lit up with a tiny flashlight. Sarah made a horse scene painted on her pasta box. We ran into lots of friends as we walked up and down through Santa Elena.
Our school (Cloud Forest School, or the CEC, Centro Educativo Creativa) celebrates independence each year by participating in the Santa Elena parade on September 15 - we have students from 1st-11th grade marching together! It includes the big band-
folkloric dancers-
baton twirlers-
fan dancers-
and the minibanda-
Gilbert played bass drum again this year in the big band.
Sarah danced with the folkloric dance group. (That's Gerry in the background. :).
Carlo joined the minibanda which I participated in leading also.
When it was all over, we went out for lunch to celebrate our Independence Birthday - Gerry's!
