Tropical Fireworks: Experiencing the 4th of July in Paradise

TROPICAL FIREWORKS: EXPERIENCING THE 4 th OF JULY IN PARADISE

Despite having its national independence day on September 15, Costa Rica’s historical links with the United States have made the 4th of July a recognizable yearly landmark in the country.

Photo by: Ryan Jacobson - Unsplash.

It’s not only the place it has on the collective unconscious thanks to film, tv, cartoons and pop culture, but the local expatriate community has also gone out of its way to extend the celebration as an almost unofficial holiday, at least in the parts of the country where there are important settlements of US citizens.

Since the 1950s, when the expat population saw an important growth due to easier air travel conditions and a booming economic landscape, the U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica began to hold annual 4th of July picnics. By 1960, an American Colony Committee was established to take responsibility for the official Independence Day Party, and in the upcoming decades, more and more communities began to import the celebration.

Nowadays, it’s just a matter of visiting a popular tourist hotspot on this date to find thematic selections of American dishes, beer promos and the obligatory fireworks display. After all, more than 120,000 Americans live permanently in Costa Rica, and around one million visit the country as tourists every year.

There’s no need to feel homesick, there’s plenty of opportunities to give the 4th of July your own tropical twist!

“Being a native of the U.S.A. and living as an expat in Costa Rica has been a great experience. The relations, both cultural and political, between the two countries have always been very positive. I can embrace my new home in Costa Rica (very thankful to be here), and still celebrate my heritage in a friendly environment here with other expats and proud, adventurous Americans who share a similar story.” Scott Williams

“One of my favorite parts of July 4th is being able to share a bit of the US culture, foods and fun with all my Costa Rican friends and family! We get to live here, revel in the Costa Rican culture, customs and traditions each day and being able to share some of our traditions here in paradise is so much fun!” Scott Cutter

Photo by: Kevin Davison - Unsplash. More details |

“U.S. holidays can be a little different living in Costa Rica but something I look forward to every year is the 4th of July celebration in the world famous Los Suenos Resort & Marina. The resort opens up the private beach-club gates to the public to celebrate with hotdogs, hamburgers, BBQ ribs, live music, and a great fireworks show. A must do!” Steve Hooven