Moving into a new home in Costa Rica comes with a treasure trove of cultural traditions to explore, and the holiday season is one of the best times to dive in. Costa Rica's Christmas celebrations are a heartwarming blend of vibrant festivities and family-centered customs. From savoring a glass of rompope to indulging in handmade tamales, Costa Rican Christmas traditions offer new homeowners a unique opportunity to connect with their neighbors and embrace the Pura Vida lifestyle. In this guide, we’ll take you through the essential traditions and local tips to help you celebrate an authentically Costa Rican Christmas, making your new home feel even more special during this magical time of the year.
What to do?
- Christmas Day
In Costa Rican tradition, as soon as the clock strikes midnight on Christmas Day, the celebrations officially begin! As a predominantly Catholic nation, many Ticos (Costa Ricans) start the evening by attending Midnight Mass, also called the Misa de Gallo (Mass of the Rooster)—a deeply spiritual and celebratory event. Unlike in many other countries, Costa Ricans traditionally exchange gifts at midnight rather than on Christmas morning, making the late-night hours a special time for family gatherings and celebrations. Throughout the day, Costa Rica’s warm, tropical climate inspires many families to head to the beach, explore the outdoors, or enjoy leftovers while spending time together.
- Tope Nacional (National Horse Parade)
El Tope Nacional, or the National Horse Parade, is one of Costa Rica's most iconic and festive holiday events. It typically takes place on December 26th in San José as part of the larger end-of-year celebrations known as Fiestas de Zapote. However, you can also find smaller, local Tope celebrations in Santa Cruz or the Paraíso area of Guanacaste. El Tope features a grand parade of skilled riders and their horses, with participants often dressed in traditional attire. The parade showcases Costa Rica’s equestrian culture, including Paso Fino horses, renowned for their smooth gait. This event highlights the country’s agrarian heritage and serves as a proud celebration of Costa Rican history.
- Festival de la Luz
The Festival de la Luz (Festival of Light) is one of Costa Rica's most anticipated holiday events, held annually in mid-December in San José. The festival includes a vibrant parade with elaborately lit floats, marching bands, and performers. Each float is a masterpiece, often reflecting Costa Rican culture and the holiday spirit. The event concludes with a spectacular fireworks display over San José, creating a magical holiday atmosphere. Local school bands and performance groups contribute to the excitement with choreographed routines and live music.
What to eat?
- Tamales
Preparing and sharing tamales is a quintessential Costa Rican Christmas tradition. Tamales are parcels made from masa (corn dough) filled with ingredients such as various meats, vegetables and seasonings. These are later wrapped in banana leaves (not corn husks, as in Mexican tamales), which infuse the tamales with a distinct earthy flavor during the cooking process. While tamales are enjoyed year-round in Costa Rica, they are especially significant during Christmas. It's common to gift tamales to friends and neighbors as the preparation of tamales is often a communal activity. Families gather to assemble dozens—or even hundreds—of tamales, often spending an entire weekend together. The tradition is passed down through generations, with unique recipes varying by region and family, and you can learn more about tamales by agent Mariam in our post titled “Our Agent’s Favorite Typical Foods.”
- Rompope
Rompope is a traditional Latin American drink similar to eggnog. It’s a creamy, sweet beverage made with milk, eggs, sugar, and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, often enriched with a splash of rum or guaro. While rompope can be purchased pre-made at stores during the holiday season, many families prefer to make it from scratch, using recipes passed down through generations. It’s often served alongside tamales or festive cookies.
- Carne Asada
Many Costa Rican families celebrate Christmas with a backyard or beachside barbecue. Roasted pork, chicken, or beef is grilled over an open flame and accompanied by homemade tortillas and popular side dishes. The preparation of carne asada embodies Costa Rican values of togetherness, as families and friends gather around the grill to share a delicious meal during the holidays.
Celebrating a truly Costa Rican Christmas as a new homeowner offers an opportunity to experience a vibrant, community-centered holiday season that blends family traditions with local flavors. As you settle into your new home, take the time to engage with your neighbors, immerse yourself in local customs, and create new memories that reflect the Pura Vida lifestyle. By embracing these authentic Costa Rican traditions, you’ll deepen your bond with your community and make this holiday season one to cherish for years to come!