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Costa Rica Independence Day | September 15, History and Traditions
September 15th is one of the most significant dates in Costa Rica’s history and culture, as it marks the anniversary of the country’s independence along with other Central American nations in 1821. Each year, this celebration brings together millions of Costa Ricans in schools, communities, and public spaces to honor freedom, sovereignty, and the patriotic values that define the national identity. The festivities include school parades, cultural performances, traditional music, folkloric dances, handmade lanterns carried by children, and the symbolic Independence Torch that travels across the country as a beacon of unity and hope. Beyond civic and festive activities, Independence Day represents a moment of reflection on the nation’s journey, respect for democracy, and the importance of preserving traditions that strengthen Costa Ricans’ sense of belonging.
History
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Historical Context:
On September 15, 1821, the Central American provinces, including Costa Rica, received the news of independence from Spain proclaimed in Guatemala. Due to the limited transportation of the time, the communication took weeks to arrive. Although the process was peaceful in Costa Rica, it marked the beginning of a new stage of political sovereignty.
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First Celebrations:
Independence was confirmed in the city of Cartago on October 29, 1821, during a town council meeting. Since then, every September 15 has been commemorated as the official Independence Day. Over time, it has become the main civic festivity in Costa Rica.
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Traditions and Symbols:
The day is celebrated with civic ceremonies, school parades, marching bands, and folkloric dances. The journey of the Torch of Liberty, traveling from Guatemala to Costa Rica, symbolizes the unity of Central American nations. The act of singing the National Anthem at 6:00 p.m. is a tradition that unites Costa Rican families in a shared patriotic sentiment.
Labor Legislation:
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Official Date:
Monday, September 15, 2025.
Observed Date:Monday, September 15, 2025.
Holiday Type:Mandatory paid holiday.
Law:Independence Day is regulated in Costa Rica’s Labor Code as one of the mandatory paid holidays, along with other civic and religious dates. This regulation ensures that workers enjoy the holiday under proper labor conditions.
Regulations:
"September 15 is a mandatory paid holiday. This means that all workers are entitled to enjoy the day with full pay, regardless of their type of contract."
"If the holiday is worked, the employee is entitled to double pay for the regular shift. In the case of overtime during this holiday, it must be paid at triple rate (double for the holiday + time and a half for overtime)."
"Companies that pay weekly, biweekly, or monthly must include this day in the full salary, even if the worker does not work on the holiday."
"Article 11 of the Labor Code states that any waiver by the employee of their right to holidays is null and void. Therefore, the employer is obliged to recognize this right."
Source: Ministry of Labor Website (MTSS)
