By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – As the first hints of the holiday season begin to permeate the capital, Costa Rica’s iconic Museo de los Niños (Children’s Museum) has officially announced the date for its most anticipated annual event. The traditional lighting of the museum’s historic facade, a cherished tradition that signals the unofficial start of Christmas for thousands of families, is scheduled to take place on Sunday, November 30, 2025.
In a social media announcement that quickly garnered public excitement, the museum confirmed the details for the free, high-quality production. The main ceremony is set to begin at 7:00 p.m., promising a night of wonder and entertainment designed to captivate audiences of all ages. This event has evolved from a simple lighting ceremony into a major theatrical production that draws significant crowds to the city center each year.
To delve into the unique administrative and legal structure that allows one of Costa Rica’s most emblematic institutions to flourish, we consulted with expert lawyer Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica, who provided his analysis on the model behind the iconic ‘Castillo de los Sueños’.
The Museo de los Niños is a testament to the power of the non-profit foundation model within Costa Rican law. By operating as a private entity with a clear public mission, it can attract corporate sponsorships and donations with fiscal incentives that are not always available to state-run entities. This public-private partnership allows for agile management and continuous innovation, ensuring the institution remains a self-sustaining and invaluable educational asset for the country, all while revitalizing a historic state property.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
The expert’s analysis underscores a vital point: the museum’s success is not just a matter of engaging exhibits, but of an intelligent legal and financial framework that ensures its longevity and dynamism. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective on how this public-private partnership serves as a model for cultural preservation and innovation in Costa Rica.
This year’s spectacle will be hosted by the museum’s beloved mascots, Museito and Museita, who will guide attendees through “a magical story” to formally welcome the Christmas season. The centerpiece of the evening will be the simultaneous illumination of over 4,000 light bulbs adorning the “Castle of Dreams.” Organizers have added to the anticipation by revealing that the climactic lighting moment will include a special, undisclosed surprise for 2025.
The production’s scale is ambitious, featuring a robust artistic ensemble of more than 40 performers, including dancers and actors. Complementing the live performances will be a sophisticated display of visual effects and an entirely original musical score, composed exclusively for the event. This commitment to original content underscores the museum’s effort to deliver a unique and memorable experience each year.
Ronny Jiménez, Director of Communications for the Museo de los Niños, emphasized the institution’s dedication to maintaining and enhancing this important cultural touchstone.
As every year, we are committed to surprising the public and offering different attractions to officially welcome Christmas with a high-quality show that will captivate all families, with surprises and new features.
Ronny Jiménez, Director of Communications of the Museo de los Niños
This statement reflects a strategic vision that goes beyond mere tradition. The event serves as a significant community engagement initiative, reinforcing the museum’s role as a central cultural institution while providing a high-value, no-cost entertainment option for the public. It represents a yearly investment in brand loyalty and public goodwill, a cornerstone of its operational strategy.
The festivities are not limited to the evening show. The entire area around the museum on Calle 4 will be transformed into a festive zone starting from 1:00 p.m. The afternoon will feature a significant public safety and community relations component, with participation from various state institutions. Following this, at 4:00 p.m., the entertainment program will begin directly in front of the museum, featuring concerts, storytelling sessions, and traditional Christmas carols to build excitement for the main event.
Ensuring the safety and security of the large crowds is a paramount concern, involving extensive logistical coordination. A comprehensive security plan, dubbed “Ruta Segura” (Safe Route), will be implemented throughout the day. This operation will involve a coordinated effort between the Fuerza Pública (Public Force), Municipal Police, the Judicial Investigation Organism (OIJ), Transit Police, and the Fire Department, ensuring a secure environment for all attendees.
For further information, visit museocr.org
About Museo de los Niños:
Located in the “Castillo de los Sueños” (Castle of Dreams), a former penitentiary in San José, the Museo de los Niños is a leading cultural and educational institution in Costa Rica. It offers interactive exhibits focused on science, technology, and culture, aiming to foster learning and creativity in children and their families. Its annual Christmas lighting ceremony has become one of the most significant public holiday events in the country.
For further information, visit seguridadpublica.go.cr
About Fuerza Pública de Costa Rica:
The Fuerza Pública, or Public Force, is Costa Rica’s national police agency, responsible for law enforcement, border patrol, and maintaining public order. Operating under the Ministry of Public Security, it plays a critical role in national security and citizen safety, reflecting the country’s constitutional decision to abolish a standing army.
For further information, visit msj.go.cr
About Policía Municipal de San José:
The Municipal Police of San José is the local law enforcement body for Costa Rica’s capital city. Its duties include enforcing municipal ordinances, ensuring public order within the canton, managing urban security, and collaborating with national police forces during large-scale public events to guarantee citizen safety.
For further information, visit poder-judicial.go.cr/oij
About Organismo de Investigación Judicial (OIJ):
The OIJ is Costa Rica’s primary investigative law enforcement agency, operating under the authority of the Judicial Branch. It is responsible for investigating complex crimes, collecting evidence, and providing technical and scientific support to the courts and public prosecutors to combat impunity and uphold the rule of law.
For further information, visit mopt.go.cr
About Policía de Tránsito:
The Transit Police is a division of the Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MOPT) in Costa Rica. Its officers are tasked with enforcing traffic laws, managing road safety, responding to traffic accidents, and ensuring the smooth flow of vehicles on the nation’s roadways, a critical function during major public gatherings.
For further information, visit bomberos.go.cr
About Cuerpo de Bomberos de Costa Rica:
The Costa Rican Fire Department is the national entity responsible for fire prevention, firefighting, and emergency medical response. It also handles hazardous materials incidents and provides rescue services. The organization is vital for public safety, particularly in managing the risks associated with large-scale events and crowded venues.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica has established itself as a cornerstone of the legal community, built upon a bedrock of uncompromising integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The firm channels its extensive experience into developing pioneering legal solutions, consistently setting new standards in the field. This innovative spirit is paralleled by a deep-seated dedication to demystifying the law for the public, reflecting a core philosophy that an educated citizenry is the foundation of an empowered and just society.
