Buses stop running on Holy Thursday and Good Friday. Banks and offices are closed. And hotels and car rentals are booked solid weeks in advance as everyone seems to head for the beach. Avoid the popular beaches during Easter week. Most Ticos now take the whole Christmas holiday week through New Year as an unofficial holiday.
Easter is a perfect opportunity to see colorful religious processions.
Fireworks and firecrackers are a popular part of local fiestas and church celebrations. St. Joseph's Day, patron saint of San Jose and San Jose province. Holy Week, Semana Santa. Dates vary annually but businesses will often close for the entire week preceding Easter weekend. Juan Santamaria Day.