Costa Rica's mid-year school break officially began Monday for approximately 1 million students attending public schools, high schools, universities and academies, according to the Ministry of Public Education (MEP).

This year's two-week vacation runs from Monday, July 6, through Friday, July 17.

The annual break traditionally marks one of the country's busiest domestic travel periods, as many Costa Rican families take advantage of the vacation to visit beaches, mountains and other rural destinations. July is considered one of the peak months for national tourism.

Although public schools are closed for classes during the break, education officials said nearly 250 public schools in socially vulnerable communities will keep their cafeterias open. The schools are expected to provide lunch to approximately 17,000 students from low-income families throughout the vacation.


The meal program is part of the ministry's ongoing effort to support children living in poverty by improving their well-being, academic performance and long-term school attendance.


Classes for students, teachers and administrative staff will resume on Monday, July 20.

While Costa Rica's public schools follow the national academic calendar, some private schools operate on a U.S.-based schedule. Those institutions began classes in September 2025 and completed the academic year in June 2026.


Their calendar typically includes a spring break around Easter, a summer vacation from June through August, and a winter holiday break that spans Christmas and New Year's.


The MEP is the government agency responsible for overseeing Costa Rica's public education system.  The ministry develops and implements policies, programs and initiatives aimed at providing free, universal basic education throughout the country.

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Have you seen or heard about children in your community who rely on school meal assistance programs?  We would like to know your thoughts on this story. Send your comments to news@amcostarica.com

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