From colorful carnivals to heartfelt religious processions, Costa Rica knows how to throw a party—and 2025 is no exception! Whether it’s the fireworks of New Year’s Day or the rhythmic beats of Limón’s Columbus Day Carnival, holidays and festivals light up nearly every month here.
Ticos (as Costa Ricans call themselves) embrace these events with a passion that reflects their rich history, deep faith, and love for life. If you’re planning a trip to Costa Rica, timing it with one of these celebrations could make your visit unforgettable. Let’s dive into the festive lineup, month by month, and see what this pura vida paradise has in store!
January: Kicking Off with a Bang
The year starts with a literal bang on January 1st for New Year’s Day (Año Nuevo). Fireworks light up the sky, and families gather for tamales and arroz con pollo, a tasty rice-and-chicken dish. It’s a national holiday, so expect businesses to close as Ticos recover from the festivities. Mid-month, the Fiestas de Palmares take over the town of Palmares for two weeks. Think horse parades, concerts, traditional bullfights (no bloodshed here—just skillful taunting!), and plenty of cold Imperial beer. It’s a cowboy-style bash that draws huge crowds, so book early if you’re nearby!
February: Coastal Vibes and Sacred Honors
February brings the Puntarenas Carnival, a lively spectacle in the coastal city of Puntarenas. Picture colorful floats, marching bands, and street parties that spill into the night—it’s a pre-Lent celebration with a laid-back beachy twist. Later in the month, though traditionally on August 2nd, some local celebrations of the Virgin of Los Angeles Day might pop up early as communities honor Costa Rica’s patron saint with smaller processions. (The big pilgrimage happens in August, but February warm-ups aren’t unheard of!)
March: Holy Week Warm-Up and Oxcart Pride
March often sets the stage for Holy Week (Semana Santa), though its dates shift with Easter (more on that in April). It’s a solemn yet vibrant time, with processions winding through towns. Meanwhile, Boyero Day in Escazú, near San José, celebrates Costa Rica’s oxcart drivers. These intricately painted carts—once vital for coffee transport—are paraded with pride, alongside folk music and dances. It’s a cultural gem that showcases Tico heritage.
April: Heroes and Resurrection
April is big for history and faith. On April 11th, Juan Santamaría Day honors the national hero who torched an enemy stronghold during the 1856 Battle of Rivas. Expect parades, music, and school kids waving flags. Then there’s Holy Week and Easter, which could fall in late March or April (in 2025, Easter Sunday is April 20th). This week is huge—think church services, family feasts with chiverre squash treats, and dramatic processions reenacting Christ’s journey. Businesses shut down, especially on Maundy Thursday and Good Friday, so plan ahead.
May: Workers and Moms Take the Spotlight
On May 1st, Labor Day (Día del Trabajador) celebrates workers’ contributions with parades and a day off for most. Later, Mother’s Day (Día de las Madres)—typically August 15th but sometimes celebrated in May in informal settings—sees families showering moms with love, gifts, and hearty meals. It’s a sweet nod to Tico family values.
June: Dads and Saints Step Up
June flips the script with Father’s Day (Día del Padre), usually the third Sunday (June 15th in 2025), where dads get their due with gifts and gatherings. There’s also Saint Joseph’s Day (Día de San José) on March 19th, but some communities shift smaller celebrations to June. It’s a quieter religious day honoring the patron saint of San José city, with masses and local festivities.
July: Guanacaste Glows and Lights Shine
July 25th marks Guanacaste Day (Anexión de Guanacaste), celebrating the province’s 1824 annexation to Costa Rica. Parades, marimba music, and bullfights fill Guanacaste’s streets—it’s a regional pride party! You might also catch early buzz for the Festival de la Luz (Festival of Lights), though it’s officially in December. Some towns test their floats in July, lighting up the night with dazzling displays.
August: The Virgin’s Big Day
On August 2nd, Virgin of Los Angeles Day (Día de la Virgen de los Ángeles) draws thousands to Cartago’s basilica for a pilgrimage honoring “La Negrita,” Costa Rica’s beloved patron saint. It’s a mix of devotion and celebration, with prayers, flowers, and a festive vibe. Then, on August 15th, Mother’s Day officially arrives, doubling down on family love with nationwide closures.
September: Independence in Full Swing
September 15th is Independence Day (Día de la Independencia), a patriotic blast celebrating Costa Rica’s 1821 break from Spain. The Freedom Torch arrives from Nicaragua, kids parade with lanterns (faroles), and everyone sings the anthem at 6 p.m. sharp. Fireworks and street parties keep the energy high—it’s a must-see for visitors!
October: Culture and Costumes
October 12th brings Day of Cultures (Día de las Culturas), formerly Columbus Day, now a celebration of Costa Rica’s diverse heritage. In Limón, it’s the Columbus Day Carnival, a week-long Afro-Caribbean extravaganza with parades, calypso music, and spicy food. Meanwhile, Day of the Masquerades (Día de las Mascaradas) sees folks donning wild masks to chase away spirits—a quirky tradition worth catching.
November: Remembering the Departed
November 2nd is All Souls’ Day (Día de los Muertos), a reflective day where Ticos visit cemeteries, light candles, and leave flowers for loved ones. It’s less flashy than Mexico’s version but deeply felt, with quiet masses and family time.
December: Holiday Cheer Galore
December is a festive marathon! Christmas (Navidad) on December 25th fills homes with tamales, rompope (egg liqueur), and twinkling lights. The Festival de la Luz in San José, typically the second Saturday (December 13th in 2025), kicks things off with a stunning parade of illuminated floats. Then, the Fiestas de Zapote (late December into January) bring bullfights, rides, and snacks to this San José suburb. It’s a Tico holiday season that spills into the new year!
Official Holidays Table
Planning a trip? Here’s when businesses close for Costa Rica’s official holidays in 2025:
| Date | Holiday | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| January 1 | New Year’s Day | Nationwide closure |
| April 17-18 | Holy Week (Maundy Thursday, Good Friday) | Major closures; Easter Sunday (April 20) varies |
| April 11 | Juan Santamaría Day | Schools and offices closed |
| May 1 | Labor Day | Parades and closures |
| July 25 | Guanacaste Day | Regional focus, national holiday |
| August 2 | Virgin of Los Angeles Day | Pilgrimage day; some closures |
| August 15 | Mother’s Day | Official holiday this year |
| September 15 | Independence Day | Big celebrations, closures |
| October 12 | Day of Cultures | Cultural events, some closures |
| December 25 | Christmas Day | Festive shutdown |
Note: Dates like Holy Week shift annually; confirm closer to your travel date.
Final Thoughts
Costa Rica’s calendar bursts with holidays and festivals that showcase its regional flair, devout traditions, and sheer joy for living. Whether it’s honoring heroes like Juan Santamaría, dancing at Limón’s carnival, or marveling at San José’s Festival of Lights, these events bring Ticos together—and visitors are always welcome to join the fun. So, pack your bags, sync your trip with one of these celebrations, and dive into the pura vida spirit. Trust me, it’s a vibe you won’t forget!