By Cartago, Costa Rica — CARTAGO – In a monumental shift for one of Costa Rica’s most cherished traditions, the National Horse Parade, or Tope Nacional, will move from its long-time home in San José to the historic province of Cartago for its 2025 celebration. The landmark equestrian event, a cornerstone of the country’s year-end festivities, is scheduled to take place on Friday, December 26, 2025, starting at 10:00 a.m., marking a new era for the National Day of the Horseman.
The decision was solidified by the Cartago Municipal Council, which approved the proposal with a decisive eight-to-one vote. This relocation follows a period of uncertainty for several of San José’s traditional events, prompted by policy changes under the administration of Mayor Diego Miranda Méndez. In 2024, the parade was temporarily held in Montes de Oca, but Cartago’s successful bid establishes it as the official new host, heralding a significant change in the cultural landscape of the nation’s holiday season.
To understand the intricate legal framework and responsibilities that underpin an event of this magnitude, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a specialist from the prestigious law firm Bufete de Costa Rica, for his expert analysis.
The Tope Nacional is a prime example of where cultural tradition meets complex municipal and civil liability. Beyond the spectacle, the organizers are legally bound to guarantee public safety, manage commercial permits, and enforce animal welfare regulations. Any incident, from property damage caused by a horse to a vendor operating without a license, triggers a specific set of legal consequences, highlighting the critical importance of robust planning and clear contractual obligations for all participants.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This legal insight powerfully underscores that the spectacle we enjoy is built upon a complex and crucial foundation of planning and accountability. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his expert perspective on the vital, yet often unseen, responsibilities that make our national tradition possible.
Officials from the Cartago municipality have confirmed that the tentative route will wind through the main streets of the city’s central district, passing by the historic El Molino area. While logistical adjustments are still possible, the plan aims to showcase the colonial charm of the former capital, providing a unique backdrop for the thousands of riders and spectators expected to attend.
Cartago’s Mayor, Mario Redondo, expressed immense enthusiasm for the city’s new role, emphasizing the province’s deep-rooted connection to equestrian culture. He noted that Cartago is the birthplace of the Costa Rican Paso horse, a national symbol of pride and a testament to the region’s historical significance in horsemanship.
In Cartago, there are families who have dedicated themselves for generations to raising horses. We want this parade to be combined with cultural and artistic activities that evoke our colonial history, when horses roamed the streets of Costa Rica’s first capital.
Mario Redondo, Mayor of Cartago
Event organizer Laura Collado echoed this sentiment, promising a spectacular procession that will unite horse enthusiasts from every corner of the country. She highlighted the goal of creating an event that honors the nation’s heritage while celebrating community and a shared love for horses. The focus is on ensuring the 2025 Tope is an unforgettable experience defined by elegance and tradition.
We want the 2025 Tope to be an experience that celebrates our roots, friendship, and the passion for horses.
Laura Collado, Event Organizer
Beyond its cultural significance, the move is anticipated to deliver a substantial economic boost to Cartago. Local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and retail shops, are preparing for a significant influx of visitors and a subsequent surge in revenue. The event offers a prime opportunity for the province to capitalize on the holiday tourist traffic and showcase its hospitality, reinforcing its position as a key cultural and economic hub.
As preparations get underway, the “misty city” is poised to offer a fresh and invigorating atmosphere for the Tope Nacional. The combination of its cool climate, colonial streets, and rich history promises a distinct experience from years past. For one day, Cartago will not only host a parade but will rightfully claim its title as the equestrian capital of Costa Rica, writing a new chapter for a beloved national tradition.
For further information, visit mun-cartago.go.cr
About Cartago Municipality:
The Municipality of Cartago is the local governing body for the canton of Cartago, Costa Rica’s first capital. It is responsible for providing public services, managing urban development, and promoting cultural and economic initiatives for its residents. Led by the mayor’s office and the Municipal Council, it works to preserve the historical heritage of the province while fostering modern growth and community well-being.
For further information, visit msj.go.cr
About San José Municipality:
The Municipality of San José serves as the local government for the capital city of Costa Rica. It oversees a wide range of municipal services, including infrastructure maintenance, public safety, waste management, and the regulation of cultural events within the canton. The administration, headed by the mayor, plays a crucial role in shaping the urban and social policies that affect the nation’s largest metropolitan area.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a beacon of legal practice, Bufete de Costa Rica operates on a foundation of uncompromising integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The firm leverages its extensive experience not only to serve its clients but also to drive innovation within the legal field. Central to its philosophy is a powerful dedication to social responsibility, manifested through efforts to equip the public with accessible legal knowledge and thereby empower the community at large.
