A Grateful Gathering | Thanksgiving as an Expat in Costa Rica
In a country where palm trees outnumber pine trees and November skies glow with sunshine instead of snow, you might think it’s hard to feel the Thanksgiving spirit. But here in Costa Rica especially along the Central Pacific you’d be surprised how deeply this holiday resonates with the expat community.
A Homegrown Holiday, Abroad
For many of us, moving to Costa Rica meant leaving behind familiar traditions. But it also meant gaining new ones and Thanksgiving is one of those beautiful cultural bridges. Whether you’re newly arrived or have lived here for years, the spirit of gratitude is something we all embrace.
Instead of family packed kitchens in chilly suburbs, Thanksgiving in Jaco, Herradura, or Bejuco might mean potlucks on breezy terraces, prayer circles under the palms, or long tables set at beachside restaurants. You’ll find people gathering at the homes of friends, attending special church services, or joining together at local venues for community meals. It’s just as heartfelt. Sometimes even more so because the connections we make here are chosen. It is your Costa Rica family.
Shared Tables, Shared Stories
One of the most special parts of this season is how open and inclusive the expat community becomes. It’s not uncommon to get an invite from someone you met at yoga, your kids’ school, or even the grocery line. Thanksgiving here is less about tradition and more about heart.
There’s something magical about a bunch of people from all over the world gathering to give thanks, swap stories, and share cranberry sauce (yes, even that makes its way down here thank you, Auto Mercado).
Don’t Want to Cook? You’re Not Alone.
Let’s face it not everyone wants to spend their Thursday cooking a turkey in a tropical kitchen. If you’re not up for prepping, roasting, and cleaning up the aftermath, there’s a local lifesaver for you.
The Roasted Edge, one of our favorite local spots, is offering fully packaged Thanksgiving meals this year. It’s the perfect solution for those who want the comfort of a traditional dinner without the stress of cooking or the cost of a private chef.
These meals are crafted with love, full of flavor, and far more affordable than many catering options. Whether you’re a solo expat, a busy family, or hosting a group of friends, their Thanksgiving packages make it easy to enjoy the day with full bellies and zero dish duty.
Reach out early they tend to sell out fast! Reserve your homecooked meal today with Roasted Edge, call 6191-8139!
Thanksgiving in Paradise
Being an expat means redefining holidays and that’s a beautiful thing. Thanksgiving in Costa Rica may not have snowflakes or football on TV, but it offers something even more meaningful: community, warmth, and connection.
Here’s to full hearts, full tables, and the joy of living in paradise.
Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at REMAX Oceanside.
Quick FAQ: Thanksgiving in Costa Rica for Expats
Yes! You’ll find turkey, stuffing mix, cranberry sauce, and even pumpkin puree at most larger grocery stores like Auto Mercado or Walmart. Some items may need to be pre-ordered.
Check local community Facebook groups, churches, or ask your REMAX agent! There’s always someone looking to welcome another seat at the table.
It varies some restaurants offer multi course dinners for $25–$40 per person. The Roasted Edge offers a great take home option for those wanting to stay in and skip the fuss.
Absolutely but keep in mind, it’s one of the most in demand days of the year. Booking early is key, and it may cost upwards of $300 for a family meal.
It’s simpler, warmer, and more intentional. It’s about gratitude, shared experiences, and feeling at home even far from where you came from.
