Royal Family Fun & Games

No, Costa Rica does not have a royal family, but that didn't stop a mammoth turn-out from among Ticos and expatriates to celebrate at the annual Garden Party for British Queen Elizabeth's birthday last Saturday.

H.M. Ambassador, Georgina Butler opened the spacious Residence gardens to the public with a refreshing lack of heavy-handed security measures that only underlines the deserved track record that peace-loving Costa Rica enjoys.

Traditional Scottish piper from California

Guards and security services were around, but their presence was discreet and unobtrusive. Everyone was welcome and a fine time was had.

The garden party offered a full day of music, theater performances, games, pony rides, prize-winning raffles, competitions and enough food and drink to keep the well over one thousand visitors happy and.., with that traditional British summer drink, Pimms, on offer, many guests were very much installed in the 'happy' bracket!

Morris dancers

A costumed town crier ringing his bell and shouting out the upcoming events wandered the grounds, occasionally threatening a show-down with the Scottish piper who was also parading his tunes among the crowds. Strawberries and cream and cakes with tea or coffee on the Terrace run by a dauntingly efficient team of ladies only added to the authenticity of the occasion.

Every inch of the gardens was in use but behind the seeming casual chaos, months of preparation and meetings had been going on, wooing sponsors, performers and volunteers. Apart from a good excuse for a party, the Birthday Celebration is to raise money for local charities, notably Costa Rican schools in need. Last year's funds of $9,000 look to be easily beaten.

'SpiderTico'