Our country is renowned for its lush rainforests, breathtaking beaches, and diverse wildlife. But beyond its spectacular landscapes, Costa Rica has a vibrant culture full of unique traditions, especially around our holidays and celebrations. So, find here a comprehensive list of Costa Rica Holidays
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Costa Rica is renowned for its pura vida lifestyle and festive spirit, which shines especially bright during the country’s many vibrant holidays and celebrations throughout the year. From ranging in the New Year to commemorating Costa Rica’s history and autonomy, Ticos find joyous reasons to come together and celebrate their families, faith, culture and national pride.
Find here a list of Costa Rica Holidays:
On January 1st, New Year’s Day is a time for new beginnings. Costa Ricans often celebrate New Year’s Eve with fireworks and parties that last late into the night. On New Year’s Day, we open our doors for shorter excursions and activities so our staff can recover from celebrations with their own families and ring in the new year together. The first day of the year feels full of promise for adventures ahead.
Juan Santamaría Day on April 11th honors Costa Rica’s national hero. Santamaría courageously gave his life fighting against the soldier William Walker’s attempted conquest of Central America in 1856.
On this day, there are parades in the city of Alajuela, where visitors can see the Juan Santamaría museum and monument. There are also parades celebrating Costa Rican culture and pride.
International Workers’ Day is celebrated on May 1st with marches throughout downtown San Jose. The day commemorates workers’ rights and economic reforms. As many streets are closed for the parades, it’s important to aknowledge this in order to get in the capital city if needed. It’s a lively display of the passion many Costa Ricans have for social causes.
Guanacaste Annexation Day on July 25th commemorates this northwestern province becoming part of Costa Rica in 1824. Guanacastecans celebrate with traditional parades, dances, cattle shows, and rodeos.
This is a great time to witness Guanacaste’s vibrant cities and we invite visitors to experience the moving festivities firsthand as a highlight of understanding Costa Rican culture.
Our Lady of the Angels Day on August 2nd holds religious significance, honoring Costa Rica’s patron saint with processions and Masses in her name. Costa Ricans take this national holiday off to do a pilgramage walking to the Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels in Cartago City. Those of us who aren’t religious still appreciate the joyful celebrations happening across the country and the chance to spend time with loved ones.
Mother’s Day on August 15th differs from the international date and celebrates both mothers and the Virgin Mary. Costa Ricans present mothers with gifts and cards to honor them, and shopping is very big on the previous dates to mother’s day.All throughout Costa Rica, the holiday has a palpable feeling of love and gratitude for the women who give so much for their families.
Independence Day on September 15th commemorates Costa Rica’s freedom from Spanish rule in 1821. Schoolchildren lead colorful parades with marching bands and folk dancing. In the evening, ox cart drivers lead a torch-lit procession that ends with fireworks. We close early so all staff can celebrate Costa Rica’s history and autonomy with their families. The moving festivities make us proud of our nation.
December 1st is a special day in Costa Rica when we celebrate the abolition of the army in 1948. On this date, President Jose Figueres Ferrer abolished the military of Costa Rica after a civil war, declaring that the country would focus its resources on health, education and environmental protection rather than armed forces. This dramatically changed the course of our history, enabling Costa Rica to become the stable democracy it is today.
Christmas is also an important holiday where Costa Ricans like to spend time with family. Even though December 25th falls during the peak tourist season when companies like Epic Adventures are very busy with visitors, we still try to celebrate Christmas together. Families attend midnight mass and enjoy traditional dishes like tamales, roast pork and fresh fruit.
Giving gifts is not the main focus – although it is changing, we still focus on faith, food and quality time with loved ones. Companies often close early on December 24th and 25th so employees can enjoy the holiday at home. With beautiful tropical weather and the spirit of “pura vida,” Christmas in Costa Rica is usually a relaxed and joyful occasion.
To conclude
Costa Rica holidays are a vibrant reflection of its rich culture, history, and the pura vida spirit that defines the nation. Each celebration, from New Year’s Day to Christmas, offers unique insights into the traditions and values of the Costa Rican people. Whether it’s honoring national heroes, embracing family ties, or celebrating independence, these holidays bring communities together and create lasting memories. At Epic Adventures, we invite you to experience the joy and warmth of Costa Rican celebrations firsthand, making your journey through our beautiful country even more memorable.