For years, downtown San José's Avenida Central has gotten dumped with fake “snow” as Ticos throw handfuls of confetti during December's Avenidazo festivities. But this year, the San José Municipality says it plans to ban the confetti, which poses health and safety problems.

Citizens have denounced the throwing of confetti before the Public Health Ministry, claiming they've been harmed by people throwing handfuls of it at them as they walk by.

Confetti throwing will be replaced by cultural activities Dec. 15-22, according to a statement from the municipality.

“Emphasis has been put on cultural activities that reach all levels of the population, that touch on the (Christmas) spirit and provide joy without any type of problem,” said San José Mayor Johnny Araya.

The San José Municipal Police will be responsible for maintaining order in the city and enforcing the confetti ban, the statement said.