Culture in Nicaragua

Explore the fascinating culture of Nicaragua

The culture of Nicaragua is somewhat varied in different regions due to the different influences that were exerted on these different parts of the country. For the most, part the majority of the country show a strong Spanish influence. However there are other parts of the country that are more influenced by the English culture.

Initially, the western half of the country was colonized by Spain. This means that the people living here were greatly influenced by the Spanish culture and as a result have a similar culture to other Spanish-speaking Latin American countries. Spanish is their first language and they practice Catholicism. But the culture is not without native influences and the current culture, which is practiced amongst the present day mestizos, is a mixture of both Spanish and native Indian culture.

On the other hand the eastern half of the country was once a British protectorate and thus the influence exerted here on the native peoples was strongly English. Most people from these regions still speak English as a first language and the Protestant religion is favored over Catholicism. However, more people in the country practice the Catholic faith than the Protestant one. The culture on the Atlantic side of the country is closer to that found in the Caribbean side and there are a large number of people who bear African descent as well as a small Garinagu population.

In the eastern half of the country you will find a small group that has remained ethnically distinct from the rest of the country. They have managed to maintain many of their tribal customs and languages and prove to be quite intriguing to visitors who are interested in finding out more about other cultures. Among these are the Sumos and Ramas people.

The mixture of Catholicism and native customs has resulted in a strong culture of fiestas based on the honoring of certain saints. Every city in Nicaragua has its own patron saint. Some towns even share their saints with other towns. Besides giving these saints gifts in exchange for blessings, such as finding a mate or ensuring a healthy crop, the people of Nicaragua engage in annual festivities in their honor. The fiestas are a time of joy and fun and usually begin with a parade wherein a statue of the saint is displayed. Traditional dances, plays and ceremonies can also be part of these festivities. Rockets and firecrackers are exploded and drinking and feasting add to the merriment. The public is kept entertained by musicians and clowns and the festivities only die down in the early hours of daylight the following morning.