Costa Rica Christmas Traditions

While many Costa Ricans will never see actual snow in their lifetimes, they definitely dream of it during the festive Christmas holiday season.  It's an exciting  time made up of 'summer' school vacations, mandatory employee Christmas bonuses (yay!), more moderate temperatures throughout the country along with celebratory parades and festivals galore.


The Festival de la Luz or Festival of Lights traditionally takes place in early December (this year on December 10th), where many communities and towns hold their own parades.  Each float is carefully decorated to reflect the Christmas season including Santa Claus, the North Pole and the most prevalent of all - snow!  Fluffy white clouds adorn the decorations that help fulfill hopes and dreams during the magical holiday season.  Entertainment during the Costa Rican Christmas holiday season can include marching bands, music, dancing and bullfighting events.   

The big Costa Rican holiday feast takes place on Christmas Eve where traditional empanadas, tamales and tortillas are served followed by a treat of seasonally available fresh fruits including apples and grapes.  Holiday dessert is the Costa Rican favorite, tres leche cake, a delectable treat made from sponge cake soaked in three types of milk topped with a dollop of fresh whipped cream.  


Flickr.com Photo Credits:
Gingerbread at Costa Rica Hotel by Randy Son of Robert
Christmas in Costa Rica by Colros