Celebrating Easter Week in Costa Rica
Easter week is an exciting time in Costa Rica. Known as Semana Santa, it is one of the countries most important religious holidays.
Holy Week is celebrated this year from the 19th to the 27th of March and no matter how you spend the holiday, you’re sure to witness a variety of religious traditions. More than 75% of the country is Catholic, and another 16% are Protestant Christians and for many, Holy Week is a time of worship, reflection and, finally, celebration of Christ’s resurrection.
Catholics are expected to relax and avoid labor during this week so Easter Week preparations begin well in advance. Families make special dishes and ready their homes for the coming celebrations and many plan their beach vacations to the coast.
If you are travelling to Costa Rica during this time you may want to visit the local town and experience the Catholic parade tradition. Every town’s Catholic Church organizes festivities on these holidays. Dramatic religious parades wind through every town, re enacting Jesus’ journey through Jerusalem, the crucifixion, and His eventual resurrection. Parade participants dress up to perform key roles, including Roman soldiers, the Virgin Mary, Mary Magdalene, and Saint Joseph. They often sing and carry incense.
Don’t worry if you are not religious. The Costa Ricans also use Easter Week to celebrate by hanging at the beach and enjoying the sun, and it is a truly wonderful time to visit this country. The perfect weather and the adorable children will bring a smile to your face. Don’t worry about so many families sharing the beach with you. Costa Rica beaches are never crazy crowded. They are just full of vibrant, wonderful energy and lots and lots of sun!