December in Costa Rica doesn’t feel rushed in the same way it does back home. Even when things get busy, there’s still a softness to the season: warm air, slower mornings, and the feeling that time stretches a little longer by the ocean.
In Nosara, the holidays come with sunshine, fresh food, and plenty of moments that feel simple in the best way. Whether you’re traveling with family, spending the season with friends, or taking a quiet trip for yourself, here’s what you can expect when visiting during the December holidays in Nosara, and a few traditions that make this time of year special.
Classic Costa Rican Holiday Traditions
If you’re in Costa Rica in December, you’ll start hearing about a few holiday staples pretty quickly:
Tamales
Tamales are one of the biggest holiday traditions here. Families make them together and share them with neighbors, friends, and coworkers. They’re usually wrapped in banana leaves and filled with masa, meat, and vegetables. You’ll see them everywhere around Christmas, and if you’re lucky, someone will offer you one like it’s the most normal thing in the world (because it is). Want to give making them a go? Ask our front desk about tamales workshops around town.
Rompope
Rompope is Costa Rica’s holiday eggnog-style drink—sweet, creamy, and often served around Christmas gatherings. Some families make it from scratch, and every version tastes a little different. It’s one of those cozy traditions that feels extra fun when you’re celebrating somewhere warm.
Festival de la Luz
If your December travels include a stop in San José, Festival de la Luz is one of Costa Rica’s most well-known holiday traditions, a big parade with floats, music, marching bands, and plenty of lights.
But you don’t have to go all the way to the capital to experience it. The small local towns of Nosara and Las Delicias de Garza both host their own versions, and they’re honestly a highlight of the season. They’re smaller, more community-centered, and full of that local charm that makes holiday celebrations here feel so special, kids running around, neighbors greeting each other, music, laughter, and that genuine sense of joy you only get in a town where everyone shows up for each other.
It’s the kind of holiday event that feels simple, welcoming, and very Costa Rica.
The Gift of Warm Weather
One of the best parts of spending the holidays here is honestly the simplest: warm weather and time outside. Instead of bundling up, you can surf in the morning, grab breakfast after, and spend the afternoon swimming or walking the beach.
And in a town like Nosara, especially near Playa Guiones, holiday season feels less like pressure and more like presence. A lot of people come here in December because they want to celebrate, but they also want to breathe.
Giving Back, Nosara Style
December is also a time when many people and businesses in Costa Rica focus on community and giving back. You’ll often see local donation drives, toy collections, and community efforts to support families and kids in the area.
If giving back is something you value while you travel, Nosara is a great place to do it thoughtfully, whether that means donating supplies, supporting local artisans, or simply choosing local businesses that reinvest in the community. Here are just a few local charities you can look into supporting:
- Nosara Animal Care
- Dream Catchers Foundation
- The Bomberos de Nosara
- Costas Verdes
- View more local charities here by searching “Nosara”
A Different Kind of Holiday Season
One of the best parts about spending the holidays here is how local it feels. You’ll see tamales being shared, small town parades filled with kids and families, and that sense that people really show up for each other this time of year.
It’s festive without being flashy, and it’s the kind of holiday energy that’s easy to fall into. If you’re looking for warmth (literally and emotionally), December in Nosara is a pretty special place to be.
Ready to plan your vacation? Book your stay at Sendero today.
