| Day | Date | Holiday | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sunday | Jan 01,2023 | New Year's Day | National holiday |
| Sunday | Mar 19,2023 | Saint Joseph's Day | Observance |
| Thursday | Apr 06,2023 | Maundy Thursday | National holiday, Christian |
| Friday | Apr 07,2023 | Good Friday | National holiday, Christian |
| Monday | Apr 10,2023 | Battle of Rivas | National holiday |
| Tuesday | Apr 11,2023 | Battle of Rivas | Observance |
| Monday | May 01,2023 | Labor Day / May Day | National holiday |
| Sunday | Jun 18,2023 | Father's Day | Observance |
| Monday | Jul 24,2023 | Annexation of Guanacaste | National holiday |
| Tuesday | Jul 25,2023 | Annexation of Guanacaste | Observance |
| Wednesday | Aug 02,2023 | Our Lady of Los Ángeles | Non Compulsory Payment Holiday |
| Monday | Aug 14,2023 | Mother's Day | National holiday |
| Tuesday | Aug 15,2023 | Mother's Day | Observance |
| Thursday | Aug 24,2023 | National Parks Day | Observance |
| Sunday | Sep 03,2023 | Day of the Black Person and Afro-Costa Rican Culture | Non Compulsory Payment Holiday |
| Saturday | Sep 09,2023 | Children's Day | Observance |
| Friday | Sep 15,2023 | Independence Day | National holiday |
| Thursday | Nov 02,2023 | All Souls' Day | Observance |
| Wednesday | Nov 22,2023 | Teacher's Day | Observance |
| Friday | Dec 01,2023 | Day of Abolition of the Army | Non Compulsory Payment Holiday |
| Friday | Dec 08,2023 | Feast of the Immaculate Conception | Observance |
| Monday | Dec 25,2023 | Christmas Day | National holiday, Christian |
| Sunday | Dec 31,2023 | New Year's Eve | Observance |
New Year's Day, or "Año Nuevo" in Costa Rica, is celebrated with joy and enthusiasm on January 1st. It marks the beginning of a fresh year filled with hope and new opportunities. Costa Ricans gather with family and friends to welcome the year ahead with fireworks, parties, and traditional music. It's a time for reflection, setting resolutions, and embracing cultural unity. As the first day of the year, it holds immense cultural importance, promoting optimism and the belief in a brighter future.
Saint Joseph's Day, known as "Día de San José" in Spanish, is celebrated on March 19th in Costa Rica. It honors Saint Joseph, the patron saint of workers and fathers. This holiday recognizes the importance of labor and fatherhood. Many Costa Ricans attend church services and participate in processions to pay homage to Saint Joseph. It's a day to appreciate the cultural significance of family and the role of fathers in society, promoting strong family bonds and values.
Maundy Thursday, or "Jueves Santo," is observed during Holy Week in Costa Rica. It commemorates the Last Supper of Jesus Christ with his disciples. Costa Ricans attend church services and processions, and some participate in the tradition of visiting seven different churches on this day. Maundy Thursday holds deep religious and cultural significance, emphasizing the importance of faith and reflection during the Easter season. It is a time of spiritual renewal and unity within the Christian community.
Good Friday, or "Viernes Santo," is a solemn Christian holiday that falls on the Friday preceding Easter Sunday. It commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. In Costa Rica, it is observed with church services, processions, and cultural events that reflect on the sacrifice of Jesus. Good Friday is a day of reflection and spiritual contemplation, emphasizing the cultural importance of the Christian faith and the significance of Jesus's sacrifice for humanity. It is a time for Costa Ricans to strengthen their religious ties and seek spiritual enlightenment.
The Battle of Rivas, celebrated on April 11th, commemorates Costa Rica's victory over William Walker's filibuster forces in 1856. Known as "Batalla de Rivas," this holiday honors the bravery and determination of Costa Ricans who defended their sovereignty. It serves as a reminder of the country's commitment to freedom and democracy. Costa Ricans celebrate this day with patriotic parades, cultural events, and historical reenactments, reinforcing the cultural importance of national pride and the defense of their homeland.
Labor Day, known as "Día del Trabajo" or "Primero de Mayo," is celebrated on May 1st in Costa Rica. It honors the contributions of workers to society and workers' rights. Costa Ricans participate in labor union rallies, parades, and discussions about labor-related issues. Labor Day highlights the importance of fair labor practices and social justice. It emphasizes the cultural significance of labor and the well-being of workers in Costa Rican society, fostering a sense of unity among the labor force.
Father's Day, or "Día del Padre," is a day to honor fathers and father figures in Costa Rica. Celebrated on the third Sunday in June, it is a time for children to express their love and appreciation for their dads. Families often gather for special meals and give gifts to fathers. Father's Day promotes family bonds and values, highlighting the cultural significance of paternal roles in nurturing and guiding children. It's a heartfelt celebration that strengthens family ties.
The Annexation of Guanacaste, celebrated on July 25th, commemorates the historical event in 1824 when the province of Guanacaste joined Costa Rica. Known as "Anexión del Partido de Nicoya," this holiday is marked by parades, traditional dances, and cultural events. It reinforces the cultural ties between Guanacaste and the rest of Costa Rica, celebrating unity and the rich heritage of the region. The day holds deep cultural significance, promoting a sense of belonging and national pride.
Our Lady of Los Ángeles, or "Virgen de los Ángeles," is the patron saint of Costa Rica. Her feast day, celebrated on August 2nd, is a significant religious holiday. Pilgrims from all over the country journey to the Basilica of Our Lady of Los Ángeles in Cartago, where they pay their respects and seek blessings. This cultural tradition underscores the deep devotion to the Virgin Mary and the cultural importance of faith in Costa Rican society. It's a day of spiritual significance and unity among Costa Ricans.
Mother's Day, or "Día de la Madre," is a special day to honor mothers and mother figures in Costa Rica. Celebrated on the second Sunday in August, it's a time for children to express their gratitude and love for their mothers. Families often gather for meals and give gifts to mothers. Mother's Day promotes family values and the cultural significance of maternal roles in nurturing and guiding children. It's a heartfelt celebration that strengthens family bonds.
National Parks Day, known as "Día de Parques Nacionales," is celebrated on August 24th in Costa Rica. It highlights the country's commitment to environmental conservation and the protection of its natural treasures. Costa Ricans visit national parks and participate in educational activities, hikes, and clean-up initiatives. National Parks Day emphasizes the cultural importance of environmental stewardship and the preservation of Costa Rica's rich biodiversity. It fosters a sense of responsibility and unity in caring for the nation's natural heritage.
The Day of the Black Person and Afro-Costa Rican Culture, celebrated on August 31st, recognizes the contributions of the Afro-Costa Rican community to the country's culture and history. Known as "Día del Negro," it features cultural events, music, dance, and exhibitions that showcase the vibrant Afro-Costa Rican heritage. This day celebrates diversity and promotes cultural awareness, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and unity in Costa Rican society. It's a day of cultural enrichment and reflection on the nation's multicultural identity.
Children's Day, or "Día del Niño," is celebrated on September 9th in Costa Rica. It's a day dedicated to honoring and appreciating children. Schools, communities, and families organize special events, games, and activities for children. Children's Day underscores the cultural importance of nurturing and supporting the younger generation, promoting their well-being and happiness. It's a joyful celebration that strengthens the bonds between adults and children in Costa Rican society.
Independence Day, known as "Día de la Independencia," is one of the most significant holidays in Costa Rica. Celebrated on September 15th, it marks the country's declaration of independence from Spanish rule in 1821. Costa Ricans participate in parades, cultural performances, and traditional dances. Independence Day highlights the cultural importance of sovereignty, patriotism, and national identity. It instills a deep sense of pride and unity among Costa Ricans, fostering a strong connection to their history and heritage.
All Souls' Day, or "Día de los Fieles Difuntos," is a Catholic holiday observed on November 2nd in Costa Rica. It's a day to remember and honor deceased loved ones. Families visit cemeteries to decorate graves, offer prayers, and light candles. All Souls' Day holds cultural significance by emphasizing the importance of remembrance and maintaining a connection with those who have passed away. It's a day of reflection, unity, and spiritual comfort within the Costa Rican community.
Teacher's Day, or "Día del Maestro," is celebrated on November 22nd in Costa Rica. It honors the dedication and hard work of educators in shaping the future of the nation. Schools and students organize special events, performances, and gifts to show appreciation for their teachers. Teacher's Day underscores the cultural importance of education and the valuable role of teachers in society. It strengthens the teacher-student relationship and fosters a culture of gratitude for those who impart knowledge.
The Day of Abolition of the Army, celebrated on December 1st, commemorates Costa Rica's decision in 1948 to abolish its military forces. Known as "Día de la Abolición del Ejército," this holiday symbolizes the country's commitment to peace, demilitarization, and diplomacy. Costa Ricans participate in parades and cultural events that promote a culture of peace and unity. It emphasizes the cultural significance of international diplomacy and the pursuit of peaceful solutions to conflicts. It's a day that highlights Costa Rica's dedication to peace and prosperity.
The Feast of the Immaculate Conception, known as "Día de la Inmaculada Concepción," is a Catholic holiday celebrated on December 8th in Costa Rica. It honors the belief that the Virgin Mary was conceived without original sin. Costa Ricans attend church services and participate in processions to pay homage to the Virgin Mary. This cultural tradition underscores the deep devotion to Mary and the cultural importance of faith in Costa Rican society. It's a day of spiritual significance and unity among the faithful.
Christmas Day, known as "Navidad," is a widely celebrated holiday in Costa Rica on December 25th. It commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ. Costa Ricans decorate their homes with festive lights and ornaments, exchange gifts, and gather for elaborate feasts. Christmas caroling and nativity scenes enhance the cultural atmosphere. Christmas Day brings joy, togetherness, and cultural traditions to communities, highlighting the cultural significance of family, love, and the spirit of giving.
New Year's Eve, or "Fin de Año," is celebrated on December 31st as Costa Ricans bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new one. It's a night of festive gatherings, parties, and fireworks. Families and friends come together to reflect on the past year, make resolutions, and embrace cultural traditions. As the year draws to a close, New Year's Eve holds cultural importance, promoting optimism and the belief in a fresh start in Costa Rican society.
