Christmas Events in Costa Rica

Written by Steph

Costa Rica News — Christmas in Costa Rica

Having just moved to Costa Rica, I know it’s December, but I’m just not feeling that Christmas spirited. Maybe it’s the 80-degree weather or the fact that I don’t have a Christmas tree yet. Maybe starting a new job, finding a place to live and trying to get around a foreign city simply isn’t conducive to celebrating the Holidays. Despite my lack of enthusiasm, there are actually plenty of opportunities to celebrate Christmas here in San Jose. Here are some that I think would melt every grinch’s heart (including mine!)

This weekend marks the White Christmas celebration in Liberia. It will include a tree lighting in the central park, carols and band performances and a parade through the town.

December 1st is the inauguration of the nativity scene at Teatro Nacional to celebrate the beginning of Advent, which will begin at 6pm. The event will be accompanied by Christmas carols sung by several choir grups and attended by San José mayor Johnny Araya.

December 2nd, the Costa Rican Christmas Choir will perform outside of the Teatro Nacional for free at 6pm.

On December 7th, Tchiakovsky’s The Nutcracker at the Teatro Nacional will begin a run of ten shows being performed by the Ballet de Cuba and local Costa Rican dancers. If this Christmas classic won’t get you in the Holiday spirit, nothing will!

The Orquesta Sinfonica Nacional is taking their show on the road! The symphony will be performing Handel’s Messiah throughout San Jose starting at the Teatro Melico Salazar at 8 p.m. on December 6th. A fantastic performance perfect for celebrating the birth of Jesus!

On December 15th, the Paseo Colon will be packed with onlookers for The Festival de Luz parade. The parade features marching bands, performers, and fireworks. This is a must for those celebrating Christmas here in San Jose.

Finally, on December 26th, the National Tope, or horse parade will take place starting at 1pm in front of the Toyota dealership on Paseo Colon and finish at the Plaza Gonzalez Viquez. The parade is an annual holiday tradition dating back to the colonial period in Costa Rica.

It might not be snow and mistletoe, but these are some great ways to get into the Holiday spirit. I can feel my heart of stone melting already!

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