History

The Annexation of Guanacaste Day is one of the most important holidays in Costa Rica, celebrated annually on July 25. This day commemorates the voluntary decision of the inhabitants of Guanacaste in 1824 to join Costa Rica, seeking political stability and economic prosperity amid regional conflicts in Nicaragua. The act was formalized through a decree of the National Assembly of Costa Rica, known as the "Annexation of Nicoya Decree."

Today, the holiday represents not only a historic event but also the rich cultural heritage of Guanacaste. The region is well known for its traditional music, dances, cuisine, and festivities, which have become an integral part of Costa Rican culture. Celebrations on this day include parades, traditional dances, marimba concerts, art exhibitions, and sports activities, especially in the province of Guanacaste.

Labor Legislation:

• Official Date:

  Thursday, July 25, 2024.

• Day Observed:

  Thursday, July 25, 2024.

• Holiday Type:

  Mandatory payment.

• Law:

  Article 148 of the Labor Code.

Regulations:

"The regulations state that all workers have the right to enjoy the holiday; therefore, they cannot be forced to work unless they voluntarily agree to do so."

"If the employee refuses to work, no sanction can be imposed for this reason. The only exceptions to this rule are those established in Articles 152 and 153 of the Labor Code."

"Regarding wage recognition, the legislation states that workplaces with weekly payments (in non-commercial activities), that is, those that recognize only the time actually worked during the week, must pay for the days worked that week and add the value of one additional day for the mandatory paid holiday. If the holiday is worked, another regular day’s wage must be added to complete double pay."

"Companies whose payment method is monthly, bi-weekly, or weekly in commercial activities must pay the full salary for the week, half-month, or month, even if the holiday is not worked. If the holiday is worked, an additional day’s salary must be paid as part of the holiday compensation."

"If overtime is worked on this holiday, it must be paid at double and a half time, meaning that the value of the overtime hour worked on a holiday is triple pay."

"It is important to remember that regardless of whether the company is national, multinational, or international, this holiday must be granted to employees working in Costa Rica."

Source: Ministry of Labor and Social Security (MTSS) Website www.mtss.go.cr