Holidays: Exploring Their Importance in Culture, Rest, and Social Well-Being – A Guide to Costa Rica's 2025 Holidays and Their Particularities

Holidays are an integral part of the social and cultural fabric of any nation, offering people valuable time to rest, reflect, and engage with their communities. Across the world, these days go beyond marking religious or historical events; they also represent a balance between work responsibilities and the well-being of individuals. Although the way holidays are observed varies greatly depending on the region and culture, the shared purpose is clear: to provide citizens with opportunities to rest and commemorate common values.

In Costa Rica, the number of holidays is relatively balanced. However, some countries have more generous holiday policies. For example, nations like India, Colombia, Thailand, and the Philippines are known for having a higher number of public holidays, while the United States and Mexico typically observe fewer each year.

Costa Rica's public holidays are regulated by the Labor Code, giving citizens not only the chance to rest but also the opportunity to celebrate and honor the country's rich history, culture, and traditions. These days, like in many countries, are legally recognized and reflect the government's commitment to the welfare of its employees. In 2025, Costa Rica will observe several public holidays, some of which fall on key weekdays, presenting both opportunities and challenges for the country's labor and economic planning. Below is a list of the 2025 public holidays so that you can plan accordingly:

• Wednesday, January 1: New Year's Day
• Friday, April 11: Battle of Rivas
• Thursday, April 17 and Friday, April 18: Holy Week
• Thursday, May 1: Labor Day
• Friday, July 25: Annexation of the Party of Nicoya
• Saturday, August 2: Day of the Virgin of Los Angeles
• Friday, August 15: Mother's Day
• Sunday, August 31: Afro-Costa Rican Culture Day
• Monday, September 15: Independence Day
• Monday, December 1: Abolition of the Army Day
• Thursday, December 25: Christmas

It is important to note that, as of 2025, Law No. 9875 of July 16, 2020, which allowed for the transfer of holidays to Mondays to promote domestic tourism from 2020 to 2024, will no longer apply. As a result, holidays will be observed on their actual dates without being moved. Additionally, the holidays of August 2 and 31, as well as December 1, are non-mandatory paid holidays, meaning they are compensated differently depending on whether employees are paid on a monthly or weekly basis. The remaining holidays are mandatory paid holidays.

For businesses, staying up to date on public holidays, payment regulations, and potential changes to the holiday schedule is crucial. This knowledge ensures compliance with labor laws and helps prevent any potential violations.

At Dentons, we are committed to providing expert guidance and legal solutions to ensure your compliance with the latest labor regulations. Our team is dedicated to helping you navigate global labor trends efficiently. For more information, do not hesitate to get in touch with us.

Contributor(s): Anna Karina Jiménez, Adriana Fernández, Sebastián Rodríguez, and Alejandra Israel.