Arenal at Christmas and New Year: what to expect

A practical guide to visiting Arenal and La Fortuna during the holiday season, covering weather, crowds, closures, and tips for a smooth trip.

The holidays in Arenal bring a special energy. The streets of La Fortuna fill with families from San Jose and international travelers alike. The volcano stands quiet in the background, and the evenings hum with the sound of cicadas and distant celebrations. If you are planning a Christmas or New Year trip here, you will find a destination that is festive but not frantic, warm in every sense.

This is not a time for solitude. But it is a wonderful time for shared experiences. The key is knowing what to expect so you can plan around the busier moments and enjoy the quieter ones. Here is what you need to know.

Weather and what to pack

December is part of the dry season in Arenal. You can expect sunny mornings and partly cloudy afternoons. Rain is still possible, especially in the afternoons, but it is usually brief. Temperatures range from the low 70s Fahrenheit at night to the mid 80s during the day. Pack light layers, a rain jacket just in case, sturdy walking shoes, and swimwear for the hot springs. The sun is strong at this elevation, so bring sunscreen and a hat.

Crowds and reservations

Christmas week and the days around New Year are the busiest of the year in La Fortuna. Hotels, tours, and popular attractions fill up early. If you want to visit the La Fortuna Waterfall, Mistico Hanging Bridges, or Rio Celeste in Tenorio Volcano National Park, book your tickets in advance online. The same goes for any guided night walks or rafting trips. Restaurants also get full, especially for Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve dinners. Make dinner reservations at least a week ahead if you have a specific place in mind.

Holiday closures and special hours

Christmas Day (December 25) and New Year's Day (January 1) are public holidays. Many small shops, bakeries, and tour offices close. Most hotels and larger restaurants remain open, but with reduced staff or special holiday menus. National parks and the La Fortuna Waterfall are open on these days, but they may close early. Check the official park websites for exact hours. Supermarkets and pharmacies usually have limited hours on Christmas and New Year's Eve, so stock up on essentials a day or two before.

Festivities and local traditions

In La Fortuna, the holiday spirit is visible in the town square, which gets decorated with lights and a nativity scene. On Christmas Eve, many locals attend midnight mass at the Catholic church. New Year's Eve is more lively, with fireworks and music in the central park. You will also see the tradition of eating 12 grapes at midnight for good luck. If you are staying at a hotel with hot springs, expect a festive atmosphere with special dinners and countdown events. These are often included in your stay or available at an additional cost.

Tips for a smooth trip

Drive carefully. Roads around Arenal can be winding and dark, and holiday traffic increases. If you rent a car, book it well in advance. Alternatively, use shared shuttles or taxis. Bring cash, as some smaller vendors and taxis do not accept cards. ATMs in La Fortuna can run out of money during peak days. Finally, be patient. Service in restaurants and tours may be slower than usual. This is a good time to slow down and embrace the pura vida pace.

Your next step

Before you arrive, make a short list of the two or three activities you most want to do and book them online at least two weeks ahead. That simple step will free you to enjoy the rest of your holiday with ease.