Semana Santa, or Holy Week, is one of the most important cultural and religious events in Costa Rica. Taking place in the days leading up to Easter Sunday, this week offers a deep and moving glimpse into the country’s spiritual heritage. But beyond its religious significance, Semana Santa is also a time of national reflection, community gatherings, and a change of rhythm across the country—from tranquil mountain towns to lively beach destinations.

For visitors, it’s a unique opportunity to experience Costa Rica in a different light. Whether you’re seeking cultural immersion, serene escapes, or time to reconnect with nature, Holy Week presents a perfect blend of tradition, rest, and exploration. At Green Circle Experience, we invite you to discover how this sacred season adds meaning and magic to your journey through Costa Rica.

Key Dates for Semana Santa 2025

In 2025, Semana Santa will take place from Sunday, April 13th to Sunday, April 20th. The week includes several key dates marked by solemn processions, local customs, and family observances:

• Palm Sunday (April 13th): Celebrates Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, with palm leaves distributed and blessed during church ceremonies.
  
• Holy Thursday (April 17th): A quiet and reflective day focused on the Last Supper; many towns hold elaborate evening processions.
  
• Good Friday (April 18th): One of the most sacred days, with dramatic reenactments of the crucifixion of Christ in cities and towns across the country.
  
• Easter Sunday (April 20th): Celebrated joyfully with church services, family gatherings, and traditional meals.

These dates are not just important for religious observance—they also influence national holidays, road traffic, business openings, and local travel trends. Travelers can expect a different pace during Holy Week: more peaceful towns, closed offices, and a country collectively taking a breath.

Religious Celebrations and Cultural Processions

Semana Santa in Costa Rica is known for its moving religious processions, rich in symbolism and deeply rooted in Catholic tradition. Cities like San José, Cartago, and Heredia, along with smaller towns such as Zarcero and Orotina, host elaborate reenactments of the Passion of Christ, complete with Roman costumes, dramatic narration, and statues of saints carried through the streets.

One of the most visually striking elements of these processions is the creation of “alfombras”—intricate carpets made from colored sawdust, flower petals, rice, and leaves. These ephemeral works of art are laid along the procession routes as a tribute to the sacred events being remembered. Walking through these towns during Holy Week, you’ll sense a powerful atmosphere of reverence and artistry blending together.

Whether you’re a spiritual traveler or simply interested in Costa Rican culture, witnessing these celebrations offers a profound and memorable experience. At Green Circle Experience, we can recommend the most authentic and respectful ways to attend these events while remaining mindful of local customs and traditions.

Traditional Easter Cuisine

Food during Semana Santa reflects both the religious observance and Costa Rica’s culinary heritage. Since many Costa Ricans abstain from red meat on Holy Thursday and Good Friday, traditional dishes feature fresh, local ingredients like fish, plantains, rice, beans, and tropical vegetables.

One of the seasonal favorites is the empanada de chiverre, a sweet pastry filled with candied squash (chiverre), often prepared by families in large batches and shared among neighbors. Other common dishes include ceviche, seafood stews, and soups made with garbanzos or lentils.

For conscious travelers, this is a wonderful opportunity to taste local, seasonal, and often home-cooked meals rooted in Costa Rica’s agricultural and spiritual identity. Many eco-lodges and boutique restaurants offer special menus during Holy Week, and we at Green Circle Experience can connect you with culinary experiences that celebrate the traditions of this sacred season—often using ingredients grown just steps from your plate.

Recommended Destinations for Semana Santa Travelers

While Semana Santa is observed throughout Costa Rica, some destinations offer a particularly meaningful or enjoyable experience for travelers during this time of year. Whether you’re seeking cultural depth, peaceful surroundings, or nature-infused relaxation, here are a few of our top recommendations:

• Cartago – As the country’s former capital and religious heart, Cartago hosts some of the most important processions. The Basílica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles becomes a focal point for devotion and ceremony.
  
• San José – The capital city offers powerful urban processions and serves as a strategic base to explore Central Valley towns and cultural events.
  
• Monteverde – Known for its misty cloud forests, Monteverde offers a quiet, contemplative atmosphere perfect for nature lovers who wish to reflect and relax during Holy Week.
  
• Orosi Valley – A tranquil and picturesque valley rich in colonial history and natural beauty. A perfect hideaway for couples and families alike.
  
• Nicoya Peninsula (Nosara, Sámara) – While more laid-back and coastal, these areas provide a soothing escape, especially for those combining wellness retreats and beach time with cultural learning.

At Green Circle Experience, we help you choose the right destination based on your interests—whether you want to observe sacred traditions, unplug in nature, or blend both into a mindful journey.

Travel Tips for Semana Santa in Costa Rica

Planning a trip during Semana Santa requires some awareness of local customs and logistical considerations. Here are some essential tips to ensure a smooth and enriching experience:

• Book early – Holy Week is one of the busiest times for both local and international travel. Accommodations, transport, and tours fill up fast—especially in beach and cultural hotspots.
  
• Expect “La Ley Seca” – Costa Rica enforces a “Dry Law” during Holy Thursday and Good Friday, meaning alcohol sales may be restricted or prohibited. Plan ahead if you’re dining out or shopping for beverages.
  
• Mind the roads – Expect heavier traffic, especially on routes to the Pacific Coast or returning to San José on Easter Sunday. Private transfers or guided tours can help ease the journey.
  
• Respect sacred spaces – If attending religious events or visiting churches, wear modest clothing (shoulders covered, no beachwear), and observe silence during processions.
  
• Plan for closures – Many public offices, banks, and even some restaurants close on Thursday and Friday. Arrange currency exchange, groceries, and activities in advance.

Green Circle Experience offers concierge services and curated itineraries that take care of these details for you, allowing you to focus on what matters most: living the experience.

A Journey Beyond the Surface

Semana Santa in Costa Rica is more than a holiday—it’s a chance to connect with the soul of a country. Whether you find yourself walking along a quiet mountain path, watching a candlelit procession, or sharing a traditional meal with locals, the week offers moments of reflection and cultural richness that stay with you long after your trip.

At Green Circle Experience, we craft journeys that align with your values and curiosity—combining comfort, sustainability, and cultural immersion. Let us guide you through a meaningful Holy Week in Costa Rica, tailored to your rhythm and desires.