Local Color

Bluefields is the capital of R.A.A.S in Nicaragua and has a population of 45,547 (2005). Its inhabitants are mostly Mestizo, Miskito, Creole, along with smaller communities of Garifuna, Chinese, Sumu, and Ramas. Bluefields is Nicaragua's chief Caribbean port, exporting hardwood, seafood, shrimp and lobster. In 1988, Hurricane Joan destroyed Bluefields, which has since been rebuilt. Fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood, chicken, rice, beans, etc., are readily available at the numerous open air markets located in the city. The locals also know how to celebrate. In addition to the many smaller festivities held at the town park, two cultural festivals, the Palo de Mayo celebration, which takes in May, and the San Jeronimo Festival, celebrated near the end of September bring the out the entire town to relax and enjoy.