Thanksgiving in Costa Rica: A Unique Celebration of Gratitude
Thanksgiving might be a traditionally American holiday, but it has found a vibrant home in Costa Rica, evolving into a uniquely tropical way of celebrating gratitude, family, and community. Each year, more expats, tourists, and locals come together to celebrate Thanksgiving, blending familiar traditions with Costa Rica’s warm, welcoming culture.
This guide explores how Thanksgiving is celebrated in Costa Rica and why it’s more than a meal—it’s an experience that captures the essence of Costa Rica’s “Pura Vida” lifestyle.
1. How Thanksgiving Arrived in Costa Rica
Thanksgiving isn’t an official holiday in Costa Rica, but thanks to expats and visitors, it has gradually become a beloved occasion. With over 120,000 American expats and countless tourists in Costa Rica each year, Thanksgiving has found its place in the country’s culture. Stores stock Thanksgiving essentials, and restaurants offer special holiday menus to meet the demand.
Over time, Costa Rica has made Thanksgiving its own, embracing simplicity, gratitude, and togetherness. Here, the focus is less on shopping and football and more on appreciating nature, enjoying good food, and spending time with loved ones—all perfectly aligned with Costa Rica’s “Pura Vida” (Pure Life) philosophy.
2. Thanksgiving, Costa Rica Style
When Thanksgiving rolls around, both expats and Costa Ricans find ways to celebrate. Here’s what makes Thanksgiving in Costa Rica so special:
A) Family and Friends First
Family gatherings are central to Costa Rican culture, and Thanksgiving is a perfect reason to spend time with loved ones. Many Costa Rican families host American friends for a traditional meal, and some even embrace Thanksgiving customs. This fusion brings turkey and cranberry sauce alongside tamales and fresh tropical fruits. The vibe is relaxed and warm, with Costa Rican music, laughter, and a strong sense of community.
B) A Tropical Twist on Traditional Dishes
Thanksgiving menus in Costa Rica often feature creative local twists. Pineapples, mangoes, and plantains add bright, tropical flavors, while staples like gallo pinto (rice and beans) and arroz con pollo (chicken with rice) take the place of some traditional sides. For dessert, pumpkin pie might be swapped for treats made with local sweet potatoes or squash, adding a Costa Rican flair to American classics.
3. Thanksgiving in Costa Rica’s Restaurants and Resorts
The hospitality industry in Costa Rica embraces Thanksgiving, with resorts, hotels, and restaurants creating special holiday menus and experiences for visitors wanting a taste of home.
- Beachfront Resorts: Many luxury resorts along Costa Rica’s coastlines, like those in Papagayo and Guanacaste, host Thanksgiving dinners with a tropical spin. Imagine enjoying a Thanksgiving feast by the ocean, with live music, bonfires, and holiday cocktails. These settings combine traditional flavors with Costa Rica’s stunning coastal views, making Thanksgiving here both relaxing and memorable.
- Dining in Expats’ Hubs: In places like Tamarindo, Escazú, and Jaco, restaurants often feature Thanksgiving specials, offering turkey and mashed potatoes alongside local dishes. Chefs in these areas often add a Costa Rican touch, using local spices or serving tamales for a fusion experience.
Across Costa Rica’s popular dining spots, Thanksgiving is less about formality and more about bringing people together to share a meal in a friendly, festive atmosphere.
4. Thanksgiving Day Activities and Outdoor Adventures
Thanksgiving in Costa Rica isn’t just about the meal—it’s a chance to enjoy Costa Rica’s natural beauty. Many travelers balance their Thanksgiving dinner with outdoor adventures, and here are some popular options:
- Beach Day and Surfing in Tamarindo: Costa Rica’s Pacific beaches offer the perfect backdrop for a day of sun, sand, and surf. Tamarindo and Jaco Beach are prime spots for surfing, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing by the water. Some visitors even book catamaran cruises for a sunset Thanksgiving celebration on the ocean.
- Wildlife and Hiking in Manuel Antonio: Manuel Antonio National Park is a fantastic spot for Thanksgiving, with lush rainforests and beautiful beaches. A morning hike through the park offers the chance to see Costa Rican wildlife, from monkeys to colorful tropical birds, while building an appetite for the Thanksgiving feast.
- Hot Springs and Relaxation at Arenal Volcano: Picture spending Thanksgiving soaking in the peaceful natural hot springs around Arenal Volcano. Many resorts in the area offer spa treatments, hot spring access, and special Thanksgiving dinners, creating a day of relaxation and indulgence against one of Costa Rica’s most stunning backdrops.
5. Giving Back and Eco-Friendly Thanksgiving Celebrations
Costa Rica’s commitment to sustainability and community carries over into Thanksgiving, where many visitors and locals use the holiday to give back.
- Volunteer Opportunities: Many visitors spend Thanksgiving volunteering at wildlife sanctuaries or animal rescues, supporting Costa Rica’s unique species. It’s a meaningful way to connect with the country’s conservation efforts and give back to the local environment.
- Beach Cleanups: Popular beaches often host cleanup events, uniting locals and travelers to protect Costa Rica’s beautiful coastline. These community initiatives reflect Costa Rica’s eco-conscious mindset and offer a fulfilling way to spend Thanksgiving.
- Eco-Friendly Lodging and Dining: Travelers can also choose eco-friendly accommodations and restaurants that emphasize sustainable practices. From locally sourced Thanksgiving meals to reusable tableware, Costa Rica’s approach to Thanksgiving aligns perfectly with its environmental focus, making the holiday a low-impact celebration.
6. Thanksgiving with a Pura Vida Twist
Thanksgiving in Costa Rica embodies the spirit of “Pura Vida”—a lifestyle that centers on gratitude, simplicity, and appreciating each moment. Rather than following a strict set of traditions, Thanksgiving here is about finding joy in small things, like sharing a meal with loved ones or reflecting on Costa Rica’s natural beauty.
Families and friends often come together for “gratitude circles,” sharing what they’re thankful for and embracing Costa Rica’s spirit of connection and contentment. Thanksgiving becomes less about following traditions and more about connecting with each other and the world around you.
A Unique Blend of Cultures and Traditions
In Costa Rica, Thanksgiving is a beautiful mix of cultures, bringing together travelers, expats, and locals. Whether you’re an American looking for a piece of home, a Costa Rican curious about this holiday, or a traveler searching for a memorable experience, Thanksgiving in Costa Rica is all about joy and gratitude.
With Costa Rica’s unique twists on classic dishes, its breathtaking outdoor adventures, and a strong sense of community, Thanksgiving here is an opportunity to make memories, connect with people, and live the beauty of Pura Vida.