Published on Friday, October 31, 2025
By the A.M. Costa Rica staff

Costa Rica celebrates Día Nacional de las Mascaradas, or National Masquerade Day, a holiday established in 1996 to honor the country’s cultural traditions.

The celebration coincides with Halloween on Oct. 31, a date when trick-or-treating has become popular in many parts of the world.

Masquerades, large, colorful papier-mâché heads, are crafted from paper pulp or strips of paper mixed with adhesive. The masks are mounted on tall poles and draped over frames to resemble human figures.

These vibrant creations are considered true works of art that often depict political figures and well-known personalities from Costa Rican culture.

Parades featuring the giant masks fill the streets across the country and remain a key part of community festivals. The tradition dates back to the Spanish colonial era in Cartago Province, when residents gathered for local celebrations, according to the Ministry of Culture.

“The Day of the Traditional Costa Rican Masquerade is a celebration that represents the richness of our cultural identity and the creativity of our artisans,” said Jorge Rodríguez Vives, Costa Rica’s Minister of Culture. “Masquerades are more than a tradition; they are a national symbol that unites communities, strengthens our roots, and helps us pass on pride in our history from generation to generation.”

This year’s Festival de la Mascarada will take place at the Fidel Gamboa Amphitheater inside the National Cultural Center (CENAC), located within the Ministry of Culture complex in San José. The free event begins Friday, Oct. 31, at 6 p.m., and features masquerade parades, dances, and live concerts.

Municipalities throughout the country will also host their own celebrations with cultural activities and traditional parades. Residents interested in learning more about events in their area can contact their local municipality for schedules and details.

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