Mother's Day in Costa Rica is a very important celebration that highlights the significance of the mother figure in the family and society. It is celebrated every year on August 15, coinciding with the Catholic feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. This day is considered a national holiday. Schools, businesses, and government offices close, making it one of the most commercially significant holidays in the country.
On this day, Costa Ricans honor their mother’s love, dedication, sacrifice, and influence on their lives with grand gestures. The festivities begin with acts of service such as preparing breakfast and giving handmade presents or flowers. Classical songs and poems, expressing gratitude and appreciation towards mothers, often fill the air. Mothers are also often treated with a grand feast at home or a dinner at a fancy restaurant, and some families gather for a religious ceremony.
Interestingly, Mother's Day in Costa Rica is often compared to Christmas considering its significance. While the day is filled with love and warmth, it can also get heated due to increased business activities as people scramble for last-minute gifts and restaurant reservations. Despite all the hustle and bustle, it's a day to remind oneself about the value of family, and most importantly, the role of mothers in shaping the culture and society of Costa Rica.