History

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

Today, the holiday represents not only a historic event but also the rich cultural heritage of Guanacaste. The region is 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 Guanacaste.

Labor legislation:

• Official date:

  Friday, July 25, 2025.

• Observed date:

  Friday, July 25, 2025.

• Type of holiday:

  Mandatory paid holiday.

• Law:

  Article 148 of the Labor Code.

Regulations:

"The regulation states that all workers are entitled to enjoy the holiday; therefore, they cannot be forced to work unless they agree to do so."

"If a person refuses to work, they cannot be sanctioned for this reason. The only exceptions are those established in Articles 152 and 153 of the Labor Code."

"For salary recognition, the law indicates that workplaces with weekly pay (in non-commercial activities)—that is, where wages are only recognized for the actual days worked in the week—must pay the days worked during that week plus an additional day for the mandatory paid holiday. If the holiday is worked, an additional day’s pay must be added to complete double pay."

"Companies with monthly, biweekly, or weekly pay in commercial activities recognize wages for all days of the month, including weekly rest days and holidays. In these cases, the full salary for the week, biweekly period, or month must be paid even if the holiday is not worked. If the holiday is worked, an additional day’s pay must be provided on top of the regular holiday pay."

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

"It is important to note that, regardless of whether the company is national, transnational, or international, this holiday must be granted."

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