Semana Santa Traditions & Foods in Costa Rica

When people think of Semana Santa in Costa Rica, they imagine peaceful beaches and solemn religious parades—but there’s another tradition that fills the air: the smell of food. During this sacred week, the kitchen becomes a spiritual space, with recipes passed down through generations and rich with flavor, memory, and meaning.

What is Semana Santa in Costa Rica?

Semana Santa, or Holy Week, is one of the most important religious holidays in Costa Rica. It typically falls in March or April and is marked by public holidays, processions, and family gatherings. Catholic traditions strongly influence what people eat: red meat is often avoided, and meals are simple yet deeply rooted in tradition.

Traditional Semana Santa Foods in Costa Rica

Chiverre Jam, Dulce de Chiverre Semana Santa

1. Dulce de Chiverre

This sweet jam made from chiverre, a giant squash native to Central America, is the star of the season. It’s slow-cooked with panela, cinnamon, and cloves until thick and caramelized, then tucked into empanadas with delicate, buttery crusts.

2. Encurtidos (Pickled Vegetables)

Served as a tangy side or on fresh bread, these pickled carrots, green beans, and onions add brightness and crunch to otherwise soft meals. Every family has their own twist.

3. Tamal de Maicena

This sweet, custardy corn tamale is usually steamed in banana leaves and enjoyed as a dessert during Semana Santa.

4. Salted Cod Dishes

Though not as common as in Spain or Portugal, salted fish appears in some regions of Costa Rica as a meat-free alternative.

Did You Know? Fun Cultural Facts

Most Costa Ricans avoid alcohol during Semana Santa as part of spiritual cleansing.
In rural areas, neighbors exchange homemade empanadas like gifts.
Many families fast until noon on Good Friday before breaking bread together.

Why Semana Santa is a Foodie's Dream

Semana Santa is one of the best times to explore Costa Rica’s deep-rooted culinary heritage. Local markets fill with seasonal ingredients, and every household brings out the secret family recipes.

For those who travel for culture—and taste—this week is a goldmine of flavor and experience.

Experience Semana Santa with Foodie Tours Costa Rica

At Foodie Tours Costa Rica, we take you beyond the typical tourist path. Whether you join our Farm-to-Table tour in San José or a countryside culinary adventure, you’ll explore the authentic flavors that make holidays like Semana Santa so unique.

We proudly collaborate with local artisans, grandmothers, and bakers who open their hearts (and kitchens) to share their traditions. You’ll get to taste and learn firsthand how food becomes part of cultural identity.

Try This at Home: Chiverre Jam Empanadas Recipe

Ingredients (makes 12):

- 2 cups flour- ½ cup butter- 1 egg- ¼ cup sugar- ½ tsp baking powder- 1 pinch salt- 2–3 tbsp cold water- 1 cup Dulce de Chiverre or spiced pumpkin jam

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 180°C / 350°F.2. Mix flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Cut in butter until crumbly.3. Add egg and water to form dough.4. Roll and cut circles. Fill with jam, fold, and seal edges.5. Bake for 20–25 minutes.

Cool and enjoy!