December 2025 in Costa Rica: The Ultimate Traveler’s Guide to Peak Season Festivities

Why December Is One of the Best Times To Visit Costa Rica

December marks the beginning of Costa Rica’s dry season, bringing warm temperatures, clear skies and some of the most exciting events of the year. Cities, beaches and rural communities come alive with festivals, cultural traditions and outdoor activities that create an unforgettable travel experience. Whether you want to explore holiday markets, enjoy vibrant nightlife, experience indigenous ceremonies or relax on sunlit beaches, December offers something for every type of traveler.

San José’s Signature December Events

Costa Rica’s capital becomes the center of the country’s holiday celebrations in December. The month begins with festive anticipation and culminates in a sequence of major events that define the season.

Festival de la Luz and Its Illuminated Parade

The Festival de la Luz takes place around mid December and launches the season with illuminated floats, marching bands, performers and a festive parade route around La Sabana. Families, travelers and locals gather early to enjoy the cultural performances and the evening show.

Fiestas de Zapote and the Carnival Atmosphere

Starting on Christmas Day, the Fiestas de Zapote turn the San José district of Zapote into a lively fairground with rides, food stalls, concerts and the traditional Toros a la Tica. The carnival runs through early January and creates a festive environment that continues long after Christmas.

Tope Nacional and its Equestrian Traditions

On December 26, downtown San José hosts the Tope Nacional, an equestrian parade featuring horses, ox carts, riders in traditional attire and sabanero culture. It is one of Costa Rica’s most iconic celebrations and attracts visitors from all over the country. Travelers who enjoy urban events and cultural pageantry will find San José especially exciting this time of year.

New Year’s Celebrations and Local Holiday Rituals

Costa Rica welcomes the new year with a blend of family traditions, symbolic rituals and lively gatherings. Many families begin the evening at home with a festive dinner before heading out to celebrate.

Customs That Shape the New Year Experience

Rituals include eating twelve grapes at midnight, walking with a suitcase to invite future travel and tossing water to cleanse away the past year’s troubles. Holiday meals often feature pork leg, chicken rice, salads and seasonal fruits like apples and grapes.

Beach and City Celebrations Across the Country

Different parts of Costa Rica offer different styles of New Year’s celebrations. Tamarindo, Santa Teresa, Playas del Coco and Papagayo host beach parties and fireworks, while San José offers hotel events and nightlife experiences. Travelers looking for a calmer evening can find relaxed celebrations in La Fortuna or along the Caribbean coast.

Indigenous and Regional Festivals Worth Experiencing

December is a meaningful month for many communities beyond the capital. Regional traditions highlight the diversity of Costa Rica’s cultural landscape.

Danza de los Diablitos in the Boruca Territory

From December 31 to January 2, the Boruca community performs the Danza de los Diablitos, a cultural ceremony that represents historical resistance and indigenous heritage. Wooden masks, storytelling and ritual movements make this event one of the country’s most significant traditions.

Fiesta de la Yegüita in Nicoya

On December 12, the town of Nicoya celebrates the Fiesta de la Yegüita, which blends Chorotega history with religious processions. Participation from community members and cultural groups adds to the event’s regional importance.

Early December Fairs and Community Events

Events like the Rural Pride Fair give travelers the chance to meet local artisans, taste gourmet foods and purchase handmade crafts. Army Abolition Day, celebrated on December 1, also sets a reflective tone as Costa Rica honors its dedication to peace.

Weather, Packing and Practical Plans for December Travel

Understanding Costa Rica’s December weather helps travelers plan a smooth trip.

The Start of the Dry Season

The Pacific side becomes sunny and warm, perfect for beach trips and outdoor adventures. The Central Valley offers comfortable temperatures, while the Caribbean remains more variable but beautifully green.

How to Prepare for Peak Season

December 22 through January 10 is the busiest travel period of the year. Hotels, tours and transportation sell out early. Travelers benefit from securing reservations ahead of time and packing a mix of lightweight clothing, sun protection and a light rain layer for occasional showers.

Christmas Traditions That Welcome the Festive Season

Costa Rican Christmas blends spiritual traditions with family celebrations. Many people attend Misa de Gallo on Christmas Eve and prepare elaborate meals featuring tamales, roasted pork, chicken rice and holiday drinks. Christmas morning is usually peaceful before public celebrations begin again in the afternoon with the start of the Zapote Festival.

Where to Celebrate New Year’s Along the Coast

The Pacific coast becomes one of the most vibrant places to welcome the new year. Tamarindo offers a high energy beachfront celebration, Santa Teresa blends surf culture with nightlife, and Playas del Coco fills with fireworks and music. The Papagayo Peninsula provides upscale resort experiences, while the Caribbean coast offers a more relaxed holiday environment.

December Food Culture and Seasonal Dishes

Travelers visiting in December can enjoy holiday dishes found only during this season. Tamales wrapped in plantain leaves, holiday salads, roasted pork leg and traditional fruit drinks fill tables throughout the country. Street food at fairs includes churros, casado plates and regional specialties that reflect the festive atmosphere.

Holiday Markets and Authentic Gift Shopping

December is the best time to find local crafts, gourmet foods and handmade gifts. Markets and fairs showcase items such as coffee blends, chocolate, woodwork, natural cosmetics and indigenous crafts. The Rural Pride Fair and the artisan stalls around cultural events offer excellent opportunities to find meaningful souvenirs.

Family Travel Opportunities Throughout December

Costa Rica is a family friendly destination, and December offers enjoyable activities for children. Festivals like the Festival de la Luz and Zapote carnival rides delight younger travelers. Nature activities such as sloth watching, waterfall hikes and hanging bridge walks are ideal for families who want to balance culture with outdoor exploration.

Adventure Travel at Its Best

December’s dry season sets the stage for adventure. Travelers can enjoy zip lining through cloud forests, rafting on rivers strengthened by recent rains, hiking volcanoes with clear views and joining night walks that reveal Costa Rica’s nocturnal wildlife. On the coast, snorkeling, catamaran cruises, kayaking and surfing are at their seasonal peak.

Why Early December Offers a Different Experience

Travelers arriving in early December benefit from fewer crowds, lower prices and a calm atmosphere before the country enters its holiday rush. This period is ideal for those who want a quieter vacation without the hustle of major events.

Making the Most of Your December Trip to Costa Rica

December offers the best of Costa Rica’s climate, culture and natural beauty. From illuminated parades in San José to indigenous ceremonies in rural communities and sunset celebrations on the beach, the country provides endless opportunities for exploration. Planning ahead ensures access to tours, accommodations and events during one of the busiest and most rewarding months of the year.