In Costa Rica, Juan Santamaría
is remembered as a national hero, for his role in the makeshift militia that opposed American imperialist William Walker. On April 11, 1856, Santamaría either set fire to Walker’s fort or his ammunitions store. Although Santamaría was killed in the process, Walker’s forces were eventually repelled.
Juan Santamaría Day is actually a week-long festival of parades, concerts, dancing, and marching bands throughout the country. The official holiday is usually on April 11, the anniversary of Santamaría’s death. Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary