Religious holidays are among the most festive occasions, especially that of August 2nd, when thousands of Costa Ricans pay homage to the Virgen de los Angeles. The northern region of Guanacaste has provided many of the country's folk traditions. Colorful wooden ox-carts are an enduring part of rural Costa Rican scenery, used to carry agricultural products. During colonial times they were actually the most important means of transportation. Folk dances from the provinces of Cartago and Heredia are also notable elements of folk culture.
Typical meals vary between regions.
Corn is the base for many dishes which originated in northern Costa Rica, and are now enjoyed throughout the country. Since their establishment, artists have found support to their artistic activities through annual contests, special awards, scholarships, and art festivals. Art galleries began to spread in 1972. Since then, the national market has become more demanding, forcing artists to become more disciplined and original. Today, the most popular art forms include sculpting, painting, and woodcarving.