No menu items!

COSTA RICA'S LEADING ENGLISH LANGUAGE NEWSPAPER

HomeTopicsArts and CultureIt's Halloween season — even in Costa Rica

It’s Halloween season — even in Costa Rica

While Costa Rica may lack the traditional autumn atmosphere many associate with this spooky holiday, the spirit of Halloween is very much alive here, albeit with a distinctly Tico twist.

Costa Rica’s climate is characterized by rainy and dry seasons, a far cry from the crisp fall weather that typically heralds the arrival of Halloween in more temperate regions. However, this hasn’t stopped residents and expats alike from embracing the festivities with enthusiasm and creativity.

As October 31st approaches, you might notice an interesting phenomenon in some of the country’s upscale grocery stores. Establishments like AutoMercado and PriceSmart often stock imported pumpkins, catering to those seeking an authentic jack-o’-lantern experience. However, be prepared for sticker shock – these seasonal imports come at a premium price.

But fear not, Halloween Pros! Costa Ricans have ingeniously adapted to the local produce availability. In a delightful tropical twist, many have taken to carving jack-o’-lanterns from watermelons and pineapples. This not only adds a unique Costa Rican flair to the celebration but also makes use of the abundant and affordable local fruits. Imagine the surprise and delight of trick-or-treaters encountering a grinning pineapple on your doorstep!

For those looking to fully immerse themselves in the Halloween spirit, Costa Rica offers a rich tapestry of local folklore that’s perfect for spine-chilling storytelling. From the legend of “La Llorona” (The Weeping Woman) to tales of the mysterious “Cadejos” (spirit animals), there’s no shortage of local ghost stories to share on a dark October night. These stories not only add an authentic Costa Rican element to your Halloween celebration but also offer a fascinating glimpse into the country’s cultural heritage.

As we embrace Halloween, it’s worth noting that Costa Rica’s adaptability to imported traditions extends beyond October. For those already planning ahead to Thanksgiving, you’ll be relieved to know that finding the traditional fixings has become easier over the years. Turkeys and even cranberries are now available in certain stores, allowing expats and curious locals to partake in this North American tradition.

The journey to celebrate Thanksgiving in Costa Rica has been a long one, fraught with challenges ranging from sourcing ingredients to adapting recipes to local conditions. Yet, it’s a testament to the country’s welcoming nature and the ingenuity of its residents that such celebrations have not only taken root but flourished.

Whether you’re carving a pineapple jack-o’-lantern, sharing local ghost stories, or planning your Thanksgiving menu, celebrating these imported holidays in Costa Rica offers a unique opportunity to blend traditions. It’s a beautiful example of cultural exchange, where the familiar comfort of home traditions meets the vibrant, tropical spirit of Costa Rica.

So this Halloween, as you bob for coconuts instead of apples or hand out candies to trick-or-treaters, remember that you’re participating in a uniquely Costa Rican version of this global celebration. It’s just one more reason to love life in this diverse and adaptable country. Feliz Halloween, or as we might say here, ¡Feliz Noche de Brujas!

Trending Now

Honduras Reinstates Mask Mandate Amid Rise in Respiratory Illnesses

Honduran health officials have reinstated a nationwide mask mandate following a spike in respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19, flu, and a fast-spreading Omicron subvariant known...

Costa Rica Embraces IHRA to Combat Antisemitism in Region

Costa Rica has formally adopted the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance's (IHRA) working definition of antisemitism. This step positions the country as the sixth in...

Costa Rica Launches Traceability System to Tackle Illegal Logging

Costa Rica is advancing with the creation of a National Forest Traceability System, a key tool to guarantee the legality and sustainability of timber...

Costa Rica Tops Latin America in Attracting Foreign Millionaires

Costa Rica is a country that attracts millionaires. Projections indicate that by the end of 2025, a total of 350 foreign millionaires will have...

Costa Rica Seeks New Air Routes Amid Decline in European Tourism

Costa Rica is working to increase the number of international flights entering the country, as it faces a concerning drop in tourist arrivals.  The...

Costa Rica’s PPSO Backs Laura Fernández to Continue Rodrigo Chaves’s Agenda

Former Minister of Economy Francisco Gamboa and attorney Douglas Soto will join Laura Fernández for the 2026 elections, representing the Sovereign People’s Party (PPSO),...
spot_img
Costa Rica Coffee Maker Chorreador
Costa Rica Coffee Maker Chorreador
Costa Rica Travel Insurance
Costa Rica Rocking Chait
Costa Rica Travel

Latest News from Costa Rica