Costa Rica is an incredible destination for the holidays, with festive events that highlight the country’s vibrant culture, natural beauty, and welcoming atmosphere. During both Christmas and New Year's in Costa Rica, the country comes alive with celebrations that bring together locals and tourists alike. Costa Rica’s Christmas celebrations include elaborate nativity displays that descend from the country’s strong Catholic roots.
From horse parades and lively festivals to beach parties and fireworks, Costa Rica offers a wide range of activities to make the holiday season unforgettable. Here’s a guide to some of the best holiday events in the country, centered around popular beach towns like Las Catalinas, Playa Flamingo, Tamarindo, and Playa Avellana.
El Tope: Horse Parades Across Costa Rica
El Tope is one of the most unique and beloved holiday traditions in Costa Rica, especially during Christmas in Costa Rica. These horse parades feature thousands of horses strutting through the streets, with riders often dressed in festive attire. The largest event occurs in San José, where over 3,000 horses parade through downtown, showcasing the country’s love for horses and equestrian culture.
In addition to the grand display in the capital, smaller towns and beach communities also host their versions of El Tope. Many coastal areas, including those near Las Catalinas, Tamarindo, and Playa Flamingo, feature smaller rodeos during the Christmas season. These events include bull riding, local food stalls, beer gardens, and live music, offering an authentic experience of Costa Rican holiday celebrations. It’s a perfect way to experience the local traditions and the festive atmosphere during Christmas in Costa Rica.
Fiestas de Zapote in San José
Fiestas de Zapote is one of the most important festivals in Costa Rica, taking place in the capital city of San José during the holiday season. This vibrant festival celebrates Costa Rican traditions with bull riding, carnival rides, games, and a variety of food and drink. The Fiestas de Zapote is known for its lively ambiance and is a must-see for anyone visiting Costa Rica during Christmas in Costa Rica.
While the event is held in San José, it attracts people from all over the country, including those from nearby beach towns. Playa Flamingo and Tamarindo, for example, often see visitors who make the short trip to San José to experience this exciting event. It’s an excellent way to immerse yourself in the local culture, with the lively festivities, food vendors, and bull riding providing an unforgettable holiday experience.
Bull Riding at Matapalo
For those visiting the southern Pacific coast of Costa Rica, the bull riding events at Matapalo during Christmas are a must-see. Matapalo, known for its stunning beaches, is also home to some of the most exciting holiday rodeos. During Christmas and New Year’s, the town hosts bull riding competitions, where local cowboys show off their skills in this thrilling tradition.
These events are filled with local energy and excitement, with food stalls and beer gardens offering a chance to sample traditional Costa Rican cuisine while enjoying the rodeo. The bull riding at Matapalo provides an authentic, small-town experience and is a great way to celebrate Christmas in Costa Rica with a local flair.
Festival of Lights in Flamingo
The Festival of Lights in Flamingo is one of the most anticipated events during Christmas in Costa Rica, especially for those near Playa Flamingo. This festival features a stunning display of holiday lights decorating the streets and local businesses. The Festival of Lights creates a magical atmosphere in the town, drawing locals and tourists to experience the colorful displays and festivities.
In addition to the lights, the Festival of Lights includes music, food trucks, and performances from local artists. It’s a family-friendly event providing a warm, community-centered holiday experience. As part of the festive celebrations, there are also opportunities to shop for local crafts and enjoy delicious Costa Rican holiday treats, making it one of the best ways to enjoy Christmas in Costa Rica.
New Year's Fireworks at Tamarindo Beach
For those celebrating New Year’s in Costa Rica, there’s no better place to be than Tamarindo Beach. Every year, Tamarindo hosts an unforgettable fireworks display to ring in the new year. The event draws crowds to the beach, where families and friends gather to watch the colorful explosions light up the sky over the ocean.
The atmosphere in Tamarindo is lively yet relaxed, with local restaurants and bars offering food and drinks as the celebrations unfold. The fireworks display is a highlight of the evening, but the entire night is filled with excitement, music, and dancing. It’s the perfect way to celebrate New Year’s in Costa Rica while enjoying the beautiful beach setting Tamarindo is known for.
Surfing at Playa Avellana
Playa Avellana is a popular surf destination in Costa Rica, especially during the holiday season. For those looking to combine outdoor adventure with holiday celebrations, Playa Avellana offers some of the best waves in the country. Whether you're an experienced surfer or a beginner, the beach’s consistent surf conditions make it a fantastic place to catch some waves.
During Christmas and New Year’s, Playa Avellana’s laid-back vibe attracts surfers worldwide. After catching some waves, you can relax on the beach, enjoy local snacks, and mingle with fellow surfers. For those looking to enjoy a more active holiday, surfing at Playa Avellana offers a fun and exciting way to celebrate New Year’s in Costa Rica while soaking up the sun.
Christmas Mass in Las Catalinas
Las Catalinas is a charming beach community that embraces local culture and the holiday spirit. For those seeking a more traditional Christmas experience in Costa Rica, attending a Christmas mass at the local church in Las Catalinas is a beautiful way to connect with the community. The church hosts a Christmas Eve service that is attended by both locals and visitors, offering a peaceful and reflective moment during the busy holiday season.
The service is followed by community gatherings, where families celebrate with food, music, and dance. This is a more tranquil and spiritually enriching experience, perfect for those looking to add a touch of tradition to their Christmas celebrations in Costa Rica.
New Year’s Eve Beach Party in Playa Flamingo
For those seeking an energetic way to celebrate New Year’s in Costa Rica, the beach party in Playa Flamingo is the place to be. This lively celebration attracts tourists and locals, featuring music, dancing, and plenty of food and drink. The beach party is held on the sands of Flamingo Beach, where people gather to welcome the New Year under the stars.
The event includes live bands, DJs, and beachside dancing, making it an unforgettable way to ring in the New Year. As the clock strikes midnight, the celebration continues with fireworks lighting up the sky, offering a spectacular conclusion to a fantastic night.
Holiday Markets in Tamarindo
Tamarindo is known for its lively atmosphere and beautiful beaches. During the holiday season, the town comes alive with vibrant holiday markets, which are held throughout December. These markets feature a wide variety of local vendors selling everything from handmade crafts to holiday treats.
The holiday markets are perfect for finding unique gifts, trying local foods, and immersing yourself in the festive atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a unique souvenir or just enjoying the local culture, the markets in Tamarindo offer a fun and engaging way to experience New Year’s in Costa Rica while supporting local artisans and businesses.
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