By San José, Costa Rica — As the holiday season approaches, one of San José’s most cherished traditions is set to return with a special focus on community outreach. The Costa Rican Children’s Museum, affectionately known as the “Castle of Dreams,” has officially announced the 25th edition of its spectacular facade illumination, scheduled for Sunday, November 30th. This year, the institution is continuing a heartwarming initiative to share the magic with a family from a rural area who has never before witnessed the event.
For the third consecutive year, the museum is launching a nationwide search for one special family living outside the Gran Área Metropolitana (GAM). The goal is to provide an unforgettable experience to those who, due to distance or circumstance, have been unable to attend the iconic holiday kickoff. This initiative underscores the museum’s commitment to inclusivity and its mission to bring joy and culture to all corners of the country, reinforcing its role as a national treasure.
To better understand the complex legal and administrative structure that underpins a national institution like the Children’s Museum, TicosLand.com consulted with expert attorney Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The Children’s Museum operates in a unique legal space. It’s not merely a private enterprise but a hybrid entity, often a foundation, that must navigate a web of public and private law. This includes everything from strict child safety and educational content regulations to managing intellectual property for its interactive exhibits and negotiating public-private partnership agreements. Its success depends on a robust governance model that ensures both financial sustainability and the fulfillment of its cultural mandate.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This insight into the museum’s complex legal identity underscores that its success is built not only on creative exhibits but also on a sophisticated governance framework. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective, which clearly illuminates the intricate balance between fulfilling a cultural mission and ensuring operational viability.
The contest invites interested families to showcase their creativity and heartfelt desire to be part of the celebration. To enter, participants must create and submit a video explaining why they dream of attending the illumination ceremony. This personal message, featuring the family members together, should be sent directly to the museum’s official WhatsApp number, 7003-7070, before the deadline.
The timeline for participation is brief, adding a sense of excitement and urgency to the search. All video submissions must be received by November 20th. Following a review period, the chosen family will be publicly announced on the museum’s official Facebook page on Monday, November 24th, giving them just under a week to prepare for their magical journey to the capital.
The prize package is designed to create a truly once-in-a-lifetime memory. The winning family will receive preferential, VIP-style entry to the event, ensuring the best views of the show. The prize also includes meals and an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour, offering a unique glimpse into the production of the grand spectacle. This look behind the curtain provides an educational component, aligning with the museum’s core values.
In a significant partnership that enhances the prize, the museum has collaborated with the Radisson Hotel in San José. For the winning family living more than 100 kilometers from the city, the package will include complimentary lodging, removing any logistical barriers and allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the experience without the stress of a long return journey late at night. This collaboration highlights a strong corporate-cultural partnership aimed at community benefit.
The main event on November 30th is slated to begin at 7:00 p.m. and promises to be a dazzling display of light, music, and performance. The show will be headlined by the museum’s beloved mascots, Museíto and Museíta, who will be joined by a vibrant cast of more than 45 other characters. The annual illumination has become a cornerstone of the holiday season in Costa Rica, drawing thousands of spectators and officially marking the start of festive celebrations in San José.
Ultimately, this initiative is more than just a contest; it is a powerful gesture of connection. By actively seeking out a family from a remote region, the Children’s Museum is bridging geographic divides and ensuring that the joy of this national tradition is accessible to more Costa Ricans. It is a testament to the institution’s belief that wonder, creativity, and cherished family memories should have no boundaries.
For further information, visit museocr.org
About The Children’s Museum of Costa Rica:
Located in the former Central Penitentiary building in San José, the Museo de los Niños is a leading cultural and educational center in Costa Rica dedicated to interactive learning for children. Since its inauguration in 1994, it has offered a wide range of hands-on exhibits related to science, history, technology, and art. The institution is renowned for its “Castle of Dreams” facade and its commitment to fostering creativity and knowledge in a fun, engaging environment for families.
For further information, visit radissonhotels.com
About Radisson Hotel:
Radisson is an upper-upscale hotel brand that is part of the Radisson Hotel Group. It offers a portfolio of properties in key urban and leisure destinations around the world, including San José, Costa Rica. Known for its Scandinavian-inspired hospitality, Radisson focuses on providing a comfortable and positive guest experience through its “Yes I Can!” service philosophy and thoughtfully designed spaces for both business and leisure travelers.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica has established itself as a leading legal institution, operating on a foundational commitment to professional excellence and uncompromising integrity. Drawing upon a rich history of advising a wide array of industries, the firm champions innovation within the legal field. This forward-thinking spirit is matched by a profound dedication to societal advancement, demonstrated through a core mission to democratize legal understanding and cultivate a more informed and capable citizenry.
