Horses, riders and beasts of burden will parade down the streets of Playas del Coco, province of Guanacaste, this Saturday afternoon. “Topes” are festive events in Costa Rica that signal the beginning of even more joyous and fun-filled family activities such as carnival rides, live music, dancing, delicious food, beer, and more.

For the first time in the short history of topes in Playas del Coco, the beautifully decorated oxcarts will also parade down the street.

As previously reported by the Costa Rica Star:

Equestrian parades in Costa Rica are longstanding holiday traditions that date back several decades; they are known as “topes,” and they are loved by just about everyone who enjoys the sight of magnificently trained horses that elegantly gait and gallop in the expert reins of their riders.

The Tope is traditionally an excuse to have an open-air party. Thousands line the parade route early, coolers well stocked with ice, beer, and other drinks.

According to popular equestrian site DeTope.com, this year’s tope in Playas del Coco will be extra special:

“This already-classic event will bring us, for the first time, the best in oxcarts from the region along with their handlers. This is on top of the traditional attendance by some of the most skilled horse riders in the Guanacaste province. Since the tope will take place on a Saturday, it is a good idea for visitors to spend the weekend in Playas del Coco and partake in all the family events this weekend.”

The tope will start at 3:00 pm on Saturday, January 25^th 2014, and it will last until 7:00 pm. Some beach hotels such as Hotel Chantel still have vacancies for last-minute arrivals, but hotel rooms are going fast.

Many spaces around the town of Playas del Coco are filling with tents from various brands such as Toyota and Cacique Guaro, so be sure to explore the city and take advantage of the deals and free giveaways that are happening this weekend!