Costa Rica, a vibrant and ecologically diverse country in Central America, observes a range of public holidays throughout the year. These holidays reflect the nation's cultural heritage, historical events, and traditions. Here is a list of some of the major public holidays celebrated in Costa Rica:
New Year's Day (Año Nuevo) - January 1st: Costa Ricans welcome the new year with celebrations, parties, and fireworks, much like in many other countries around the world.
Juan Santamaría Day - April 11th: This holiday honors Juan Santamaría, a national hero who played a crucial role in the Battle of Rivas in 1856 during the Filibuster War. Parades, concerts, and cultural events are held in his honor.
Holy Thursday (Jueves Santo) - Date varies (usually in March or April): Costa Ricans observe Holy Thursday as part of Holy Week, marking the events leading up to Easter Sunday. Many businesses and schools close during this period.
Good Friday (Viernes Santo) - Date varies (usually in March or April): Good Friday is a solemn religious holiday with church services and processions. It is a day of reflection and remembrance of the crucifixion of Jesus.
Easter Sunday (Domingo de Resurrección) - Date varies (usually in March or April): Easter Sunday is celebrated with church services and family gatherings. Many Costa Ricans take part in traditional Easter egg hunts.
Labour Day (Día del Trabajador) - May 1st: Labour Day is dedicated to recognizing the contributions of workers. It often includes parades, marches, and speeches advocating for labor rights.
Annexation of Guanacaste (Anexión del Partido de Nicoya) - July 25th: This holiday commemorates the annexation of the Guanacaste region from Nicaragua in 1824. Festivities include parades, rodeos, and cultural events.
Mother's Day (Día de la Madre) - August 15th: Mother's Day is a special day to honor mothers and mother figures in Costa Rica. Families often celebrate with gatherings and gifts.
Independence Day (Día de la Independencia) - September 15th: Costa Rica celebrates its independence from Spanish colonial rule in 1821. This is a patriotic holiday with parades, music, dancing, and the raising of the national flag.
Columbus Day (Día de la Raza) - October 12th: Columbus Day commemorates Christopher Columbus's arrival in the Americas. It is also a day to celebrate Costa Rica's diverse cultural heritage.
Christmas Day (Navidad) - December 25th: Christmas in Costa Rica is a festive occasion with church services, feasts, gift-giving, and decorations. Costa Ricans often build nativity scenes known as "portales."
New Year's Eve (Nochevieja) - December 31st: The year ends with parties, fireworks, and celebrations as Costa Ricans welcome the arrival of the new year.
In addition to these national holidays, Costa Rica also observes regional and local holidays, such as the celebration of patron saints in various towns and communities. These holidays provide opportunities for Costa Ricans to come together, enjoy their cultural traditions, and appreciate their rich history and natural surroundings.
