First hand experiences and contact is the key. We are see lights on houses, in windows, Santa decorations, store displays started in early Oct., etc. Christmas trees are popular. Since Costa Rica has plenty mountains and the plateau we live in is elevated - cypress and other evergreens flourish here. December is windy and marks the end of rainy season.
Days are clear and ave.
On the coasts in the 80's. Tamales are a Christmas tradition here as well as empenadas. The class can research what those are. It is quite a project to make them, but they are delicious. Manger scenes in houses are big - sometimes filling the whole living room.