Nicaragua over Christmas, New Year's

[hazelfern]

My husband and I are planning our first trip to Nicaragua for sometime between mid-December to mid-February (when we're likely desperate for sun and warmth!). Is there a disadvantage or an advantage--or doesn't it matter--to being there over the holidays? Are there special celebrations or activities that a visitor could enjoy? Or are things closed down and more limited than usual? We'd appreciate any advice or experience regarding this. Thanks.

[Joshua Berman]

Prices in San Juan del Sur go waaaay up during Xmas week and New Years', so you may want to avoid that, but otherwise, "high season" is still pretty low compared to other countries like Costa Rica, so you shouldn't have to worry about bookings or crowds. Good luck.

[Megan]

I have heard of places filling up in Granada (as well as SJDS, of course) for the last couple of weeks in December.  So, if you decide to come then, you would probably want to make some reservations in advance. Outside of those two weeks, you probably wouldn't need to plan ahead too much.

[Randall Wood]

It's a great time to see Nicaragua, so don't let the prices discourage you!  Warm by your standards, cool/pleasant by Nicaragua's standards, lots of sun, etc.  It's a nice time to travel!

[erik nelson]

San Juan del Sur is extremely noisy in December, especially the nine days following the Immaculate Conception on December 8.  Church services at 4;00 am begin with heavy artillery, and the fireworks go on as much as 20 hours a day.  Nightly the statue of the Virgin is paraded through town on the back of a truck, followed by a marching band.  The weather is great at this time of year, but I´m escaping to Leon for the rest of December in the hopes of finding some peace and quiet.

[Joshua Berman]

I would add:

"[Every pueblo, city, and village in Nicaragua] is extremely noisy in December."

Randy and I once asked an old señora in Managua why, WHY?! WHY?!! they used so many fireworks. Her answer: "To call God's attention to our happiness." That shut us up quick.

[Philip Harris]

Just so you know it is a fantastic time to visit