Okay, so I wanted to experience Easter in Costa Rica, and let me tell you, it was quite the adventure! I started by doing some digging online. I knew it was a big deal there, a predominantly Catholic country, but I wanted the real, local experience, not just the touristy stuff.
First thing I did was book a flight and a small place to stay near San José. It was a bit last minute, so prices weren’t ideal, but hey, that’s part of the adventure, right?
Getting Started
Once I Arrived, I was immediately hit with the festive atmosphere. Everyone seemed to be preparing for something. I quickly realized that Semana Santa (Holy Week) is a HUGE deal. It’s not just Easter Sunday; the whole week leading up to it is filled with processions, traditions, and family gatherings.
Immersion
- Processions: This was the most visually stunning part. I stumbled upon several processions in San José. People were carrying elaborate floats depicting scenes from the Bible, and the crowds were massive and deeply moved. I’m not religious myself, but the sheer spectacle and the devotion of the people were captivating. I tried to capture some photos, but honestly, they don’t do it justice.
- Food: Oh man, the food! I noticed a lot of families picnicking and sharing meals. I was lucky enough to be invited by a local family to share some of their traditional Easter food. Lots of seafood, especially a dish called chiverre ,a sweet treat that kind of looks like a pumpkin filling, that’s popular this time of year. They were incredibly welcoming and explained everything, even though my Spanish is pretty basic. I felt a bit awkward at first, but their genuine hospitality quickly put me at ease.
- Family Time: It was clear that Easter in Costa Rica is all about family. Everywhere I looked, there were large groups of people, young and old, spending time together. I saw families heading to the beach, having picnics in parks, and just generally enjoying each other’s company. It made me a little homesick, to be honest, but also gave me a warm feeling.
- Church Services: I’m not a churchgoer, but I did peek into a few churches during the week. They were packed! It was interesting to see the differences in the services compared to what I’ve seen back home (even though I haven’t been in ages).
Reflecting
My Easter in Costa Rica was definitely a unique experience. I went in expecting one thing and came out with something completely different, and I mean that in the best way possible. It wasn’t just a holiday; it was a deep dive into the culture and traditions of the country. I fumbled my way through conversations, probably made a few cultural faux pas, but ultimately, I felt welcomed and I learned a lot.
I’m already thinking about my next trip! Maybe next time I’ll brush up on my Spanish first, though.