New Year's Day

New Year's Day in Costa Rica, celebrated on January 1st, marks the beginning of the new year with vibrant festivities and cultural traditions. As a predominantly Catholic country, many Costa Ricans attend midnight Mass on New Year's Eve, known as "Misa de Gallo," to give thanks for the past year and pray for blessings in the coming one. Families and friends gather for festive dinners, often featuring traditional dishes like tamales, roasted pork, and arroz con pollo. At midnight, fireworks light up the sky, and people toast with champagne or "rompope," a local eggnog-like drink. A unique Costa Rican tradition involves carrying a suitcase around the block at midnight to symbolize travel and new adventures in the coming year. Others write down their wishes or resolutions and burn them, believing it will help their dreams come true. New Year's Day itself is a public holiday, with many people enjoying time off to relax, visit loved ones, or head to the beach. The holiday reflects Costa Rica's emphasis on family, gratitude, and optimism for the future, making it a joyful and meaningful celebration.