Published on Friday, May 1, 2026
By the A.M. Costa Rica staff

Costa Rica observed Workers’ Day on Friday, May 1, with most government offices, private businesses and international agencies closed nationwide.

The holiday honors laborers and the working class and is recognized globally by the international labor movement.

Workers’ Day traces its origins to a decision by the American Federation of Labor to commemorate the start of a nationwide strike in the United States on May 1, 1886. The protest became a rallying point for labor rights and is now marked annually in many countries.

In 1955, the Catholic Church dedicated May 1 to Saint Joseph the Worker, recognizing the patron saint of workers and craftsmen. According to the canonical Gospels, Joseph was a Jewish man from Nazareth and the husband of Mary, the mother of Jesus.

According to the Ministry of Labor, all public employees are entitled to a paid day off for the national holiday. The measure applies to workers in nonessential institutions, including schools, universities, technical institutes, academies, banks, municipalities, clinics, ministries and other government entities.

Essential public services, including electricity, drinking water, public safety, transportation and health care, remained operational. Agencies such as the Costa Rican Electricity Institute, Water and Sewer Institute, the Ministry of Public Security, the Ministry of Public Works and Transport and the Costa Rican Social Security Fund maintained continuous service throughout the holiday.

Most embassies in the country, including those of the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom, also closed in observance of the holiday.

In the private sector, Costa Rica’s Labor Code designates May 1 as an official paid holiday. Employees required to work are entitled to double pay.

Vehicle restrictions in San José were suspended for the day, reflecting reduced traffic levels as public institutions and many businesses shut down, easing congestion across the capital.

International Workers’ Day is observed worldwide on May 1. However, some countries, including the United States and Canada, mark a similar holiday on the first Monday in September.


The Ministry of Labor (MTSS) is the government agency responsible for overseeing compliance with labor laws, promoting decent work, and fostering social justice within the country.

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How is Workers’ Day observed in your country? We would like to know your thoughts on this story. Send your comments to news@amcostarica.com