11 Greatest Festivals in Costa Rica to Go to

Costa Rica in Central America is known for its lush jungles, stunning beaches, and diverse wildlife, but did you know that it’s also home to some awesome festivals? Here are the best festivals in Costa Rica or you to explore.

From celebrating cultural traditions to enjoying world-class music and food, there are some great festivals in Costa Rica. These festivals are celebrated by both residents and foreigners alike and draw in hundreds of thousands of attendees each year.

If you’re planning on visiting the country, or already living there, don’t miss these cool Costa Rica festivals.

11 Best Festivals in Costa Rica

Here are some of the best festivals in Costa Rica that you need to experience.

1. Ocaso Underground Music Festival

January 6th to 11th

This festival takes place in the small town of Tamarindo, Costa Rica, from January 6th to 11th. It is a five-day event that showcases local and international electronic music artists. However, there are also art installations, workshops, and camping available. This is the perfect festival for those who love to dance and soak up those good vibes.

2. BPM Festival

12th to 18th January

The BPM Festival: Costa Rica takes place in the surf town of Tamarindo. The weeklong festival features some of electronic music’s finest names.

And with BPM taking up the reigns, you can expect only a top-tier lineup of house and techno stars, with the festival’s debut edition having featured the likes of Luciano, Deep Dish, Nicole Moudaber, Carl Craig and Dubfire. 

You can check out your transport options from San Jose to Tamarindo here.

3. Fiestas Zapote

25th December

This is one of Costa Rica’s most popular festivals and takes place in the town of Zapote. It’s a week-long event that celebrates Christmas with traditional music, food, and dance. There is also a large amusement park with rides and games for the whole family.

4. Envision Festival

27th of February to 6th of March

Envision Festival is a nine-day event that takes place in Uvita, Costa Rica. It’s a sustainable living festival that aims to promote creativity, innovation, and conscious living. There are art installations, yoga classes, and music performances from world-renowned artists. If you’re interested in sustainability and self-improvement, this is the perfect festival for you. This is also the most internationally renowned festival in Costa Rica.

5. Palmares Fiestas

January 9th-21st

This is a two-week festival that takes place in the town of Palmares. It is one of Costa Rica’s largest and most traditional festivals. It celebrates the country’s independence with parades, bullfights, and rodeos. This is a great festival to experience Costa Rican culture and traditions.

6. Límon Carnival

12 October

This is a costarican folkloric dance that takes place every year on October 12th and 13th. A group of friends created this festival at Alajuelita on March 19, 1935. They were celebrating their victory against the Spanish Guardia Civil that occurred on February 24, 1856. They used dance as a way to be able to communicate with one another easily since, back then, most of them did not speak Spanish.

The purpose of the Límon Carnival is to celebrate life through music, dance, food, and joy. This event has become an important part of Costa Rican culture, and it celebrates all over the country. It’s one of the best festivals in Costa Rica to time your trip for.

7. Fiestas De Los Diablitos

December 30 to January 2, 1-7 February

The Fiesta de Los Diablitos is an annual celebration that takes place in two villages. The first occurs on December 30th through January 2nd, when a village elder blows into their conch shell at midnight and begins the festivities for Boruca. While second happens in the village of Rey Curre, from January 1st to the 7th. Both villages celebrate the fighting of the little devils or diablitos. The Diablitos are indigenous people who fought against the Spanish conquistadors. This festival is a way to remember and honor their ancestors.

READ MORE: The Best Places to Go Hiking in Costa Rica

8. Sun Festival

June 24

This is a music festival held at Cusco. It’s called Sun because it takes place during summer when there are plenty of sunny days and nights. The festival lasts for two days, with multiple stages and activities to choose from. The best part about Sun Festival is that it’s not just a music festival; it also features yoga classes, meditation sessions, and art workshops. All these events take place all day on Saturday and Sunday. During these seven days, you’ll participate in multiple workshops, meditation sessions, and classes by people who share your interests.

This is one of the coolest festivals in Costa Rica to go to.

9. Easter Festival

17 April

The Easter Festival is a week-long celebration that takes place in different areas of Costa Rica. It is a religious festival that celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ. There are processions, concerts, and mass held throughout the week. Before you go to Costa Rica, there are a few things you should know, and the fact that they tend to go BIG at Easter is one of them!

10. Festival de la Luz

10th – 12th September

This is a festival that celebrates the winter solstice. It is held in the city of San José from the 10th to the 12th of September. The festival features live music, food stalls, and art installations. Furthermore, this is a great festival to experience Costa Rican culture and traditions.

11. Puntarenas Carnival

February and March

This is a three-day carnival that takes place in Puntarenas. It is one of Costa Rica’s largest and most traditional festivals. It celebrates the country’s independence with parades, bullfights, and rodeos. Also, this festival will give you an opportunity to experience Costa Rica’s rich culture and traditions.

Top tips for the best festivals in Costa Rica

1. Make sure to check the festival schedule in advance so you can plan your trip accordingly.
2. Most festivals are free, but some may have a small entrance fee.
3. Wear comfortable shoes and clothing as you will be doing a lot of walking.
4. Bring cash with you as some stalls may not accept card payments.
5. Be prepared for large crowds as some of these festivals attract tens of thousands of people.
6. Have fun and enjoy the experience!

Costa Rica festivals

Costa Rica is a land of many festivals. If you’re looking to experience the best that this Central American country has to offer, be sure to mark at least one (or all) of these amazing events on your calendar. From music and food festivals to celebrations of traditional culture, you won’t be disappointed.

So, have you attended any Costa Rican festivals?

Which one was your favourite?

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