Friends and family get together to go to this parade (and party) of horses. Of course, you've got to dress for the occasion: cowboy boots, jeans, and hat are standard equipment for this type of event.
Tope Paseo Colón, San José
Spectators show up and line the streets, jostling for the best view. Music and beverages take center stage as they patiently wait for the tope to start.
It's a party atmosphere. Little by little the protagonists show up, and they are gorgeous animals: tall, strong, erect.
They are imposing horses with brilliant coats of brown, black and white, dressed with colorful ribbons in their manes and elaborate accessories that ensure that each rider's horse will be noticed. Full of pride, the owners and riders begin their parade amid the crowds that watch them, galloping and strutting along.
The tope is a parade of horses where hundreds of experienced riders — and others not so much — show off their and their animal's skills. Meanwhile, the multitude applauds. This is a common activity in Costa Rica and is often used as part of the opening ceremonies for religious and civic festivals in many communities.
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