May marks an interesting transition in Costa Rica. After the intense tourist activity of Easter Week (Semana Santa), the country enters a quieter phase in terms of international tourism, but maintains an active cultural, civic, and social agenda. Between national holidays, cultural events, and institutional celebrations, the month offers different opportunities to enjoy Costa Rican cultural life.
May 1: International Workers’ Day
May 1 is celebrated in Costa Rica as International Workers’ Day, one of the country’s most important national holidays. This date commemorates the historical struggle for labor rights and recognizes workers’ contribution to economic and social development.
In Costa Rica, May 1 is a mandatory paid holiday, meaning employers must grant the day off or pay double wages if employees work on that day. (wincalendar.com)
In addition to its social dimension, this date has an important political meaning. Each year, May 1 also marks the election of the Legislative Assembly’s Board of Directors, where deputies choose the President of Congress and other members of the parliamentary leadership. (Wikipedia)
In San José, union marches, social organization activities, and civic gatherings are usually held, turning this day into a space for reflection on work and social justice.
May 8: Presidential inauguration in Costa Rica
May 8, 2026 will be an important institutional date in Costa Rica, as the presidential inauguration will take place, the official ceremony in which the new President of the Republic assumes office.
During this event, the elected president takes the oath before the Legislative Assembly and receives the presidential sash, symbol of executive power. This process occurs every four years and marks the beginning of a new presidential term.
The event includes official ceremonies at the Legislative Assembly, government protocol activities, and the presence of international delegations.
May 9: Miss Universe Costa Rica 2026
On May 9, 2026, the Miss Universe Costa Rica 2026 final will be held at the Costa Rica Convention Center, located in Heredia. (Wikipedia)
During the final gala, contestants from different regions of the country participate, and the representative for the international Miss Universe pageant is selected.
The event includes artistic performances, runway presentations, and various evaluation categories for the participants.
May 12: Expoalimentaria Costa Rica 2026
On May 12, 2026, Expoalimentaria Costa Rica 2026 will take place at Parque Viva, in La Guácima de Alajuela. (eventos.cr)
This event brings together companies, professionals, and entrepreneurs linked to the food industry and technological innovation in the sector.
The fair includes:
- Food and technology exhibitions
- Conferences on innovation and sustainability
- Business networking spaces
Expoalimentaria has become a major meeting point for the agro-industrial and food sector in Costa Rica.
May 15: Costa Rican Farmers’ Day
May 15 is celebrated in Costa Rica as Farmers’ Day, a date dedicated to recognizing the work of those who cultivate the land and contribute to the country’s food security.
This commemoration was established by Law No. 4096 of 1968, which created this celebration to honor Costa Rican farmers. (adminsi.cultura.cr)
In different communities across the country, activities include:
- Agricultural fairs and farmers’ markets
- Recognition of outstanding farmers
- Educational activities in schools and rural communities
The agricultural sector remains an important part of Costa Rica’s economy and cultural identity.
May: start of the green season in Costa Rica
May also marks the beginning of the so-called green season in Costa Rica, a period in which rainfall begins to increase after the dry season.
Although precipitation usually occurs mainly in the afternoons, this climatic change transforms the country’s landscapes:
- Tropical forests regain intense greenery
- River and waterfall flow increases
- National parks show greater biodiversity
For many travelers, this season represents an excellent opportunity to visit the country with fewer tourists and enjoy especially lush natural landscapes.
May 2026: a month between culture, tradition, and nature
May combines social celebrations, institutional events, and natural changes that shape the rhythm of the country.
Key moments of the month include:
- International Workers’ Day (May 1)
- Presidential inauguration (May 8)
- Miss Universe Costa Rica 2026 pageant
- Professional events such as Expoalimentaria
- National Farmers’ Day celebration (May 15)
Although it is a quieter month in terms of tourism, May offers opportunities to better understand Costa Rica’s cultural, institutional, and agricultural life.
