Welcome to our Monthly Highlights – December 2025
Following events within local communities, sharing featured places, and Costa Rica real estate!
Upcoming Concerts & Events in San Jose
Explore Live Concerts & Comedy Events HERE
Explore JAZZ CAFE of Escazu Events HERE
Explore Avenida Escazu Events HERE
A Warm Welcome to December in the Central Valley
Warmest greetings from the Central Valley,
December is one of the most special months to be in Costa Rica. The Papagayo winds arrive, the city fills with lights, and families begin preparing for their holiday traditions. Whether you’re new to the country or have celebrated here for years, Costa Rica in December has a way of making everyone feel at home.
This month, I’m sharing my insider tips for enjoying Christmas in the Central Valley, including where to watch the Festival of Lights, ways to participate in local traditions, the Nutcracker, our Restaurant Spotlight, and a beautiful new listing in Santa Ana.
Festival of Lights – Where to Sit & How to Enjoy It
San José’s Festival de la Luz is one of the city’s biggest and most beloved holiday events. Thousands gather to watch illuminated floats, marching bands, and performances that officially kick off the Christmas season.
This year’s parade begins at Parque Metropolitano La Sabana and continues along Paseo Colón toward downtown.
Best Place to Sit (Avoid the Crowded, Slower End of the Parade)
To enjoy the event comfortably — especially with children — I strongly recommend watching near the parade’s starting point by La Sabana Park. Here’s why:
- Floats arrive fresh and on schedule, with tighter spacing and better flow.
- The neighborhood is safer and more open, perfect for families.
- You can arrive early and set up chairs, ensuring a front-row view.
- More amenities nearby (restaurants, bakeries, parking options).
Avoid watching near Avenida Central/Chinatown, where crowds swell, delays are common, and the surrounding streets are not ideal for families after dark.
Tips for a Great Experience
- Arrive between 4:00–4:30 pm to secure a good spot.
- Bring your own folding chairs, drinks, and snacks — locals do this every year.
- Wear light, comfortable clothing, but bring a sweater for the evening breeze.
- Use Uber rather than driving, as roads close early and parking fills up quickly.
For more information visit the municipal Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/
THE NUTCRACKER
Shows from Decemebr 5th to the 14th. Visit here for more information: https://www.facebook.com/ElCascanuecesCostaRica/
MULTIPLAZA ESCAZU MALL
Weekend events filled with activities for families. Music events, pictures with Santa Claus, and a sparkling Christmas decor throughout the mall.
Restaurant Spotlight: Don Wu Village
Loacted in Escazu Village, Don Wu Village is one of those places you return to again and again—not just for the food, but for the experence it brings. This long-standing favorite offers a menu rooted in Korean BBQ and dishes of traditional Korean food, among them bibimbap, kimchi jjigae, and bulgogi.
What to Expect:
The dishes are generous and full of the nostalgic flavors that make Korean BBQ cuisine so beloved.
Ambiance:
A friendly environment where diners can cook directly from the charcoal grill at their own table creating a joyful, social expereince. Its fun and distinctive. Parking is convenient and access is easy, making it a great go-to option in Escazú.
My Tips:
The restaurant is extremely popular, so I recommend making a reservation. Try the Korean BBQ dish to experience grilling at your table.
Holiday Traditions in the Central Valley
Costa Rican Christmas has a rhythm of its own, and understanding the traditions helps newcomers feel connected:
Portales (Nativity Scenes)
Families build elaborate nativity displays, often with running water, moss, figurines, and miniature fruit offerings.
Tamales
The ultimate December tradition. Families gather for “la tamaleada,” preparing hundreds of pork or chicken tamales wrapped in plantain leaves. You’ll see neighbors exchanging them as gifts.
Misa de Gallo (Midnight Mass)
Most towns in the Central Valley hold Christmas services in their local Catholic church, usually located in the central square (parque central). These community Masses are always in Spanish and are an important part of Costa Rican holiday traditions. For those looking for an English-language service, there is English Christian Fellowship located in Santa Ana (https://www.ecfcr.net/ ) and a small Catholic chapel called St. Mary’s located at the Wyndham San José Herradura Hotel in Belén (near Cariari). While they do not offer Midnight Mass in English, they typically hold English services on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Schedules vary each year, so it is best to check their St. Mary’s Chapel – Belén Facebook page or contact the group directly for updated holiday service times.
Neighborhood Lights
Throughout December, homes decorate with white lights, cypress wreaths, and glowing nativity scenes.
Featured Listing: Casa Evergreen Serenity – Santa Ana
One-Level Luxury Living in One of the Central Valley’s Most Desired Locations
https://homes-costarica.com/
This beautiful one-level home in Santa Ana strikes the perfect balance between modern comfort and lush garden living — ideal for retirees, families, or anyone seeking privacy with quick access to the conveniences of the Central Valley.
Key Features
- Open concept living with high ceilings and natural light
- Three spacious bedrooms, including a master suite with garden views
- Beautifully landscaped exterior spaces with mature greenery and room for outdoor dining
- Custom kitchen with modern appliances and high-quality finishes
- Secure gated community with excellent access to Santa Ana, Escazú, Route 27, and top schools
- Perfect one-level design for ease of movement and comfort
This is a rare opportunity to own a serene, turnkey home in one of Santa Ana’s most desirable residential communities.
Final Thoughts
Thank you, as always, for being part of the Homes Costa Rica community. December is a time to slow down, enjoy family, and take in the traditions that make the Central Valley such a warm and welcoming place to live.
I wish you and your family a peaceful and joyful Christmas season.
Best wishes, Anthony
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Visit me at www.homes-costarica.com
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As always, I look forward to working with you now & in the future…
Anthony
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