Christmas Day 2025
Date: December 25, 2025 (Thursday)
Country: Costa Rica Public Holidays
Description
Christmas Day in Costa Rica is a special holiday that celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. It is a time for people to reflect on faith, family, and the values that matter most to them.
Christmas takes place on December 25 each year. In Costa Rica this day is a national public holiday, so many people have the day off work and schools are closed. The date is the same as in many other countries around the world.
For many Costa Ricans the day is significant because religion plays an important role in everyday life. Churches hold services and people use the day to show gratitude and care for others. It is a moment to connect with spiritual beliefs.
Christmas Day also has cultural meaning in Costa Rica. It brings communities together and strengthens a sense of national identity. The holiday marks the end of the year and leads people into a season of reflection and hope.
Traditions
In Costa Rica families decorate homes with lights, nativity scenes, and plastic poinsettias. Streets fill with music and people wear festive clothes. Children wait for midnight when many parties start and fireworks light the sky.
People attend late church services called misa de gallo. After the service families return home for a big meal. Some towns hold parades and neighborhoods organize caroling and small community parties that last late into the night.
The traditional meal has tamales made from corn dough wrapped in banana leaves, rice, beans, and roasted pork. Sweet treats include tres leches cake and seasonal fruit. Coffee is served throughout the celebrations.
Gifts are opened around midnight or the next morning. Many families spend the day visiting relatives and neighbors to share food, music, and warm greetings.
Travel Tips
Many shops, banks, and public offices are closed on Christmas Day in Costa Rica. Restaurants and hotels usually stay open, so book ahead. Buses run less often, taxis work, and airports are busy in the morning and evening.
Carry ID, some cash, water, and sunscreen. Use hotel or guided tours for safety. Stay in populated areas after dark and watch your belongings. Enjoy beaches and parks during daytime and buy from local vendors who remain open.