Costa Rica New Years Day 2025

When is it Celebrated?

New Year's Day falls on January 1st and is a national public holiday.

Know about the Complete List of Public Holidays in Costa Rica this year including National and Regional holidays.

The day signifies new beginnings, hope and gratitude, allowing people to leave behind the past and welcome the future with optimism and festivity.

Costa Ricans or Ticos, welcome the New Year with:

Family feasts, featuring traditional dishes like tamales, gallo pinto and rompope (a Costa Rican eggnog).
Midnight fireworks, lighting up cities and beaches in a dazzling display.
Street parties and parades, especially in San José, where people dance to cumbia and salsa rhythms.
Beach trips, as many Costa Ricans escape to the Pacific or Caribbean coast for a sun-filled holiday.
Superstitious traditions, like wearing yellow underwear for prosperity or running around the block with a suitcase to attract travel opportunities.

New Year's celebrations in Costa Rica have evolved from Spanish colonial traditions, blending Catholic customs with indigenous and modern influences.

The focus is on joy, gratitude and togetherness. Many take the opportunity to set New Year's resolutions and reflect on personal growth.

Costa Ricans celebrate with 12 grape-eating at midnight, symbolizing wishes for the next 12 months.
Some burn "Año Viejo" effigies, representing the old year and bad luck.

Ticos embrace New Year's Eve street parties, music festivals and fireworks, making it one of the most exciting times of the year.

People gather with family, toast with sparkling cider, dance, light fireworks and start the year with enthusiasm.