Public Holidays in Costa Rica 2025 – National & Religious Calendar
Costa Rica celebrates a mix of public holidays that showcase its Catholic heritage, independence, and national pride. With strong cultural traditions and a peaceful identity, the country’s holidays unite citizens in celebration and reflection.
Overview of Public Holidays in Costa Rica
Public holidays in Costa Rica combine Christian observances and national commemorations. Key holidays include Independence Day, Annexation Day, and religious events such as Holy Week and Christmas. On these days, government offices, schools, and banks remain closed, and families gather to celebrate with parades, festivals, and community events.
List of Public Holidays in Costa Rica (2025)
| Holiday | Date (2025) | Day | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Wednesday | Marks the beginning of the new year with family and community gatherings. |
| Maundy Thursday | April 17 | Thursday | Commemorates the Last Supper of Jesus Christ during Holy Week. |
| Good Friday | April 18 | Friday | Observes the crucifixion of Jesus Christ; a solemn day throughout the country. |
| Juan Santamaría Day | April 14 | Monday | Honors national hero Juan Santamaría, who died defending the nation in 1856. |
| Labour Day | May 1 | Thursday | Celebrates workers and their rights; features marches and public events. |
| Annexation of Nicoya Day | July 25 | Friday | Commemorates the annexation of the Nicoya region from Nicaragua in 1824. |
| Virgin of Los Angeles Day | August 2 | Saturday | Honors Costa Rica’s patron saint “La Negrita”; thousands make pilgrimages to Cartago. |
| Mother’s Day & Assumption Day | August 15 | Friday | Celebrates both mothers and the Virgin Mary’s assumption into heaven. |
| Independence Day | September 15 | Monday | Marks independence from Spain in 1821 with parades, music, and torch processions. |
| Day of the Cultures (Día de las Culturas) | October 13 | Monday | Celebrates Costa Rica’s multicultural heritage and diversity. |
| All Souls’ Day | November 2 | Sunday | Remembers deceased loved ones with church services and cemetery visits. |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | Thursday | Celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ with religious services and family feasts. |
Religious and Cultural Significance
Holy Week (Semana Santa) and Christmas are the most important religious celebrations in Costa Rica, characterized by processions, church masses, and traditional foods. Independence Day and Annexation Day reflect the country’s peaceful and patriotic values. Families come together for community parades featuring students in traditional dress and folk music.
Public Observances and Closures
On national holidays, schools, banks, and government offices close nationwide. Shops and restaurants often remain open, especially in tourist areas like San José, Guanacaste, and Puntarenas. Transportation schedules may be adjusted during Holy Week and Christmas.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many public holidays does Costa Rica have?
Costa Rica observes around 12 official public holidays each year, covering both religious and national celebrations.
When is Independence Day celebrated in Costa Rica?
Independence Day is celebrated on September 15, marking freedom from Spanish rule in 1821.
What is the Annexation of Nicoya Day?
Annexation Day on July 25 commemorates the peaceful union of the Nicoya region with Costa Rica in 1824.
What religious holidays are important in Costa Rica?
Holy Week, Assumption Day, and Christmas are the most significant religious holidays in Costa Rica’s Catholic tradition.
Conclusion
Public holidays in Costa Rica highlight the country’s commitment to faith, peace, and family. From Independence Day to Holy Week, these holidays bring citizens together in reflection and celebration of their national identity.
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