Share
Share 
Share
December 25th Holiday in Costa Rica - Christmas and Labor Regulations
In Costa Rica, December 25th marks the celebration of Christmas, one of the most significant holidays in the country’s social and religious calendar. This date is recognized as a mandatory paid national holiday under Article 148 of the Costa Rican Labor Code, meaning that all workers are entitled to a paid day off and cannot be required to work without prior agreement with their employer. The holiday must be observed on December 25th itself and cannot be moved to another date on the calendar.
History
-
Historical context:
December 25th marks the celebration of Christmas, a holiday of Christian origin that commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ. This date was incorporated early into Costa Rican tradition due to the cultural and religious influence inherited during the colonial period, eventually consolidating itself as one of the most significant celebrations on the national calendar.
-
Evolution of the celebration:
Over the years, Christmas in Costa Rica has gone beyond its religious dimension to become a family- and community-centered celebration. The date is characterized by family gatherings, traditional dinners, gift exchanges, and community activities, maintaining a strong emphasis on togetherness, solidarity, and reflection.
-
Traditions and customs:
Among the most representative traditions are Christmas decorations, nativity scenes, Christmas Eve masses, and family celebrations held on December 24th and 25th. These customs are part of Costa Rica’s cultural heritage and reinforce the values of unity and peace associated with this holiday.
Labor legislation:
-
Official date:
Thursday, December 25th, 2025.
Date of observance:Thursday, December 25th, 2025.
Type of holiday:Mandatory paid holiday.
Law:December 25th is recognized in the Costa Rican Labor Code as one of the mandatory paid holidays. This provision guarantees workers the right to a paid day of rest, given the cultural and social relevance of the date.
Regulations:
"December 25th is a mandatory paid holiday; therefore, workers are entitled to enjoy the day with pay, regardless of their type of employment."
"If the holiday is worked, double pay applies for the ordinary working day. If overtime is performed, it must be paid at triple rate, in accordance with current labor legislation."
"Companies that pay wages on a weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly basis must include this holiday within the regular salary, even if the employee does not work on that day."
"The Labor Code establishes that any waiver of mandatory paid holidays is null and void; therefore, employers are legally obligated to respect this right."
Source: Ministry of Labor and Social Security (MTSS) Website
How can Asicon Consulting support you?
At Asicon Consulting Costa Rica, we support you in the correct application of holiday pay, salary calculations, double pay or overtime, as well as the review of withholdings and labor-related charges, ensuring full compliance with current regulations.
Our support includes specialized advisory services, process validation, and period-end support, enabling companies to manage year-end holidays in an orderly, transparent manner and in full compliance with the legal framework.
