Predominantly Catholic Costa Rica observes All Souls’ Day, also known as the Day of the Dead, on Nov. 2 each year.


Although the religious observance is widely recognized, it is not listed among the country’s official national or paid public holidays.


According to the Episcopal Conference of Costa Rica, the country’s leading Catholic authority, most Costa Ricans identify as Roman Catholic. Although the Constitution guarantees freedom of religion, Catholicism is the country’s official religion.

However, religious authorities say some people confuse Costa Rica’s solemn Day of the Dead observance with the more colorful celebrations traditionally held in Mexico.


The Catholic Church observes All Saints’ Day on Nov. 1, followed by All Souls’ Day on Nov. 2. Church officials clarified that both days honor the dead, but each has a different focus, with a one-day interval between the observances.


Costa Rican families traditionally attend Mass and visit cemeteries on All Saints’ Day, placing flowers and candles on the graves of loved ones. The day honors all saints and Catholics believed to have reached heaven.

The following day, All Souls’ Day commemorates all those who have died, including people who were not baptized or did not belong to the Catholic faith.


Catholics dedicate the observance to prayer and reflection, remembering departed loved ones, including those who followed other religions or had no religious affiliation.


Costa Rica observes both days with solemnity and reverence. In other countries, however, including Mexico, the Day of the Dead is marked by more festive traditions, according to officials.

In Mexico, families clean and decorate graves with flowers, light candles and hold vigils that often continue into the early morning hours.

Food and music are part of the celebrations, while streets and homes are decorated with colorful paper, flowers and lights to honor the deceased.

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What Day of the Dead traditions have you seen in your town?  We would like to know your thoughts on this story. Send your comments to news@amcostarica.com