Welcome to Monthly Highlights of October
Anthony Livoti’s San Jose’s Hot Topics – October 2024
UPcoming Concerts & Events in San Jose
Explore Live concerts and Comedy events HERE
Explore JAZZ CAFE of Escazu events HERE
Walmart of Escazu “BLACK OCTOBER” Spotlight
Explore Promotions HERE
October in Costa Rica: Halloween, Traditions, and the End of the Rainy Season
It’s October, and as we approach the end of the rainy season and the close of another year, there is much to celebrate. For those curious about how Costa Ricans mark the change in seasons, the festivities can vary greatly depending on the region. In the Central Valley, one of the country’s more densely populated and developed areas, October brings a blend of local and foreign traditions. Alongside Costa Rican holidays, you may find celebrations that have been borrowed or adapted from abroad, such as Canadian Thanksgiving and Halloween, which are popular in metropolitan areas but not commonly seen in other parts of the country.
Celebrations in Costa Rica
While Halloween is not a traditional holiday in Costa Rica, you will find pockets of celebration throughout the Central Valley, especially in areas like Escazú and Santa Ana. Expats and foreign influence have helped Halloween thrive in private schools and certain neighborhoods. Families who enjoy the spooky season will find costume parties, trick-or-treating, and community events organized around these areas, making the Central Valley an ideal place to experience both Halloween and local Costa Rican celebrations.
Local Folklore and the Día de la Mascarada
Costa Rica offers its unique spin with Día de la Mascarada, celebrated in many regions. This vibrant event features parades with large, handmade masks depicting characters from Costa Rican folklore, accompanied by live cimarrona bands. It’s a fun, cultural event for families looking to experience Costa Rica’s rich heritage.
You’ll also hear spooky tales around this time of year. Costa Rican legends, such as La Llorona and the duendes, add a folkloric twist to the season, making it a unique cultural experience.
The Rainy Season: Wrapping Up in October
October marks the final month of Costa Rica’s rainy season. While there are heavy afternoon showers, this temporada verde leaves the entire country beautifully lush and green. By November, the rain tapers off, ushering in perfect weather for outdoor activities and holiday events, making it an exciting time to explore the beauty of the region. But be sure you carry an umbrella with you during this final rainy sendoff.
Did You Know? Costa Rica Real Estate Facts
- Foreigners Can Own Property: In Costa Rica, foreigners have the same rights as citizens when purchasing property. There are no restrictions on foreign property ownership, making it an attractive option for international buyers.
- No MLS System: Costa Rica does not have a formal Multiple Listing Service (MLS) like you would find in the U.S. or Canada. This can make it challenging to get a comprehensive view of available properties. However, professional real estate agents, like those associated with Homes Costa Rica, have in-depth local knowledge and access to networks that help bridge this gap, providing buyers with the most accurate and up-to-date information.
- Property Title Registry: Costa Rica does have a central property registry, the Registro Nacional, where all real estate transactions are recorded. This registry includes crucial information such as property boundaries, ownership history, and any liens or encumbrances. While it offers transparency, navigating the system can be complex without expert guidance. Working with a seasoned agent ensures that you can safely and confidently purchase property without missing important details.
- Professional Guidance: Choosing the right real estate agent can make all the difference in navigating Costa Rica’s unique market. Anthony Livoti brings years of experience, both as a resident and an agent in Costa Rica. His knowledge of the local area, legal procedures, and negotiation skills help make the purchasing process smoother, especially in a system without an MLS. You can trust that his advice will guide you through any challenges with clarity and professionalism.
This Month’s Featured Restaurant
JAGUAR NEGRO – ESCAZU
For this October newsletter, we’ll highlight Jaguar Negro in Escazú. Located in the heart of the trendy suburb, this restaurant offers a blend of contemporary Costa Rican cuisine with international influences. Jaguar Negro is known for its creative fusion dishes, stunning presentations, and use of locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant’s chic, rustic design adds to the experience, making it a popular spot for both locals and expats.
Why you should try it:
- Signature Dishes: Jaguar Negro’s standout dishes include their slow-cooked pork ribs in tamarind sauce and a fresh tuna tartare with tropical fruits.
- Atmosphere: The ambiance is a perfect mix of cozy and upscale, ideal for a relaxed evening or a special occasion.
- Cocktail Bar: They also boast an impressive cocktail menu featuring unique drinks made from Costa Rican fruits and herbs, like the popular passion fruit mojito. Jaguar Negro in Escazú is well-known for its large selection of tequilas and mezcals. Their cantina is located in the heart of the restaurant and offers what is described as the largest collection of these spirits in Costa Rica. The bar uses these tequilas and mezcals to craft modern, locally inspired cocktails, blending Mexican tradition with Costa Rican influences. They focus on seasonal ingredients to create unique drink experiences, making it a top spot for tequila enthusiasts.
For newcomers and those seeking to experience modern Costa Rican gastronomy, Jaguar Negro is a must-visit in Escazú’s ever-evolving culinary scene.
Education and Enhancing Your Famiy’s Costa Rican Cultural Experience
La Jirafa y Yo is a Costa Rican editorial publishing company focused on producing high-quality educational books and literature aimed at children and young readers. Their publications spotlight the rich biodiversity of Costa Rica, making their books especially valuable for children moving to the country for the first time. The company is celebrated for promoting local writers and illustrators, allowing readers to engage with Costa Rican culture, wildlife, and nature.
One of their standout new releases is a series dedicated to the trees of Costa Rica, providing readers with an immersive look into the nation’s diverse flora. These books aim to teach children the significance of trees within Costa Rica’s ecosystems and their role in preserving environmental balance. The educational focus is clear, as these texts help foster a sense of ecological stewardship and appreciation for the natural world.
In addition to their tree series, La Jirafa y Yo offers an extensive collection of small books about animals found in Costa Rica, all available in both English and Spanish. This bilingual format makes these books ideal for expatriate families or anyone looking to strengthen language skills while learning about the country. The books cover a range of creatures, from the smallest insects to the majestic wildlife that inhabits the forests and jungles.
To discover more about the wide range of books by La Jirafa y Yo, you can follow their social media for updates and new releases, as well as purchase their collections directly online. Their books are available through their website, making it easy for parents, teachers, and educational institutions to order these bilingual books. If you’re in Costa Rica and want to visit their physical store, it’s located in San Pablo de Heredia.
Thank you for reading my article today!
Stay tuned for more updates and insights in our next newsletter. If you have any questions or need assistance with real estate in Escazu, Santa Ana or the Central Valley, don’t hesitate to reach out!
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Visit me at www.homes-costarica.com
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As always, I look forward to working with you now & in the future…
Anthony
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