The Google Doodle from today honours Costa Rican Independence Day. On this date in 1821, the nation ratified the Central American Act of Independence alongside El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua, declaring its independence from Spain. Two years later, Costa Rica joined the other four nations to form the Federal Republic of Central America. In 1838, Costa Rica left the Federal Republic and attained independent independence.

The day is celebrated in Costa Rica with parades, traditional performances, and fireworks. On the morning of Independence Day, youngsters in traditional costumes dance to the rhythm of the drums as school bands march in a procession. Families also indulge in celebratory meals like casados, an excess of rice, beans, salad, and tortillas.

The national flag of Costa Rica is depicted in contemporary art as having horizontal bands of dark blue, white, and red with a central coat of arms. The deep blue stands for endurance, the white for peace, and the red for the friendliness and generosity of Costa Rican culture.

Happy Independence Day, Costa Rica!