oxcart day

The oxcart, designated National Labor Symbol on March 22, 1988, is a rustic strong vehicle with two compact wheels moved by two oxen.

The oxcart integrated Costa Rica into international commerce by becoming the main means of export transportation after 1840. The first shipment of coffee to London was transported from the coffee plantations to Costa Rica's main ports by oxcart in 1843. After World War II, the oxcart became obsolete due to new inventions. It has been used since then as an ornamental object although some farmers still use it during the coffee harvest season to carry coffee to processing plants in rural areas.

Painting oxcarts developed into a form of original Costa Rican art in the early 20th century. Cowherds decided to add life to oxcarts by hand painting them with bright colors and geometrical figures. There are never two oxcarts painted the same. This art has been passed from generation to generation up to the present time.

The painted oxcart has become a Costa Rican symbol throughout the world. (http://www.costarica.com/Home/Culture/National_Symbols/National_Labor_Symbol)