Top 10 Must-See Events and Festivals in Costa Rica for 2024-25
Costa Rica’s charm as a top travel destination includes the chance to have unforgettable cultural experiences, delicious food, and really lively celebrations. And you know what? This country gave me thousands of good memories and lots of love when I travelled extensively throughout this incredible nation for years. But as a normal nomad, I understand how much tricky travel planning can be, which is why I’ve put together a list of my favourite top 10 things in Costa Rica to help other buddies out and enjoy a seamless trip to Costa Rica.
In addition to being a lot of fun to attend, these festivals provide excellent chances to meet and converse with Ticos, as Costa Ricans refer to themselves, and discover more about their rich cultural heritage. For insider info on the ideal times to visit and how to maximize your experience, continue reading. The best of Costa Rica is here for you!
1. Santa Cruz Festivities (January, 2025)
The town of Santa Cruz has well-known celebrations that honour their patron saint, El Santo Cristo de Esquipulas, and get things started each year. Known for its breathtaking beaches and sun-kissed scenery, the lovely province of Guanacaste is home to Santa Cruz, which comes to life during this celebration. You can anticipate mouthwatering local fare, thrilling bullfights, a parade of horsemen through vibrant streets, exciting gunpowder games, and nonstop live music and dancing. If you’re visiting in early January, this is a must-do activity that’s the ideal way to get a taste of the relaxed Tico way of life.
2. Puntarenas Carnival (Late February 2024 and 2025)
Taking place on the dazzling Pacific coast, the vibrant Puntarenas Carnival is commonly referred to as the “Carnival of the Queen.” Over several days, elaborate floats, dancing comparsas groups, elaborately costumed participants, men balancing on stilts, and boisterous local bands parade through the city center.
- You’ll also find sporting competitions, fishing tournaments, horseback processions, spectacular fireworks displays, and the coronation of the Carnival Queen.
It’s nonstop partying and creates a celebratory atmosphere you won’t find anywhere else. Make sure to book accommodations well in advance for this high-energy festival.
3. Virgin of the Sea Day (July 16 annually)
Venture to the charming port town of Puntarenas on July 16 to witness one of Costa Rica’s most iconic religious traditions. Fishermen decorate their boats and parade them several miles out to sea in homage to the Virgin Mary. Locals say this ritualistic procession serves to ask for her blessing and protection of maritime livelihoods.
- Join spectators who line the shore to see this mystical display, enjoy traditional Tico dishes, dance to live music well into the night, and feel the deep history and faith intertwined with this holy day.
It’s mesmerizing to observe.
4. Annexation of Guanacaste (July 25 annually)
Celebrate the rich cultural heritage and unique identity of Costa Rica’s northwestern region after your wildlife tours in Costa Rica. Once a distant province of Nicaragua, modern-day Guanacaste became part of Costa Rica on July 25, 1824. Today, the anniversary event honors this important piece of history.
- Expect colourful parades, vibrant costumes, spirited bullfights, marimba dance performances, regional cuisine, and Costa Rican food like casado (Gallo pinto with beans and rice), and festive activities throughout the province.
A great time to explore the laidback beach towns and stunning landscapes that make this area so special.
5. Pilgrimage to the Virgin of the Angels (August 2 annually)
Join pilgrims from all corners of the country for one of Costa Rica’s most poignant religious displays. On August 2 each year, thousands undertake the approximately 15-mile trek from San Jose to the ornate Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels in Cartago. Many hike the full journey on their knees as an act of profound faith, while others go on foot, by car, or by bus. Arrive at dawn to experience the palpable devotion infused in each step of this massive pilgrimage and feel part of something truly impactful. The peaceful energy will stay with you long after.
6. Lantern Parade (September 14 annually)
This eye-catching parade ushers in Costa Rica’s Independence Day festivities. Community groups across the country gather to handcraft luminous lanterns, each uniquely decorated with vibrant colours and intricate designs. Then starting at 6pm sharp, children accompanied by parents and teachers tour local streets holding their radiant creations skyward as the national anthem plays. It’s a picturesque celebration combining pride, artistry and passionate patriotism seen nowhere else. Join in the festive spirit as lanterns light your way.
7. Independence Day (September 15 annually)
On September 15, Costa Ricans take to the streets in enthusiastic celebrations of their 1830 independence from Spain. A flagship activity is the patriotic music showcase that sees school bands from across the nation parading through major thoroughfares from early morning till noon. With instruments blaring upbeat tunes and large crowds cheering them on, it creates an electric atmosphere.
- Find a spot along the route or in a central plaza to experience this energetic tradition and feel the locals’ powerful sense of sovereignty and autonomy.
8. Día de los Muertos (November 2 annually)
Experience a meaningful glimpse into Costa Rican culture and traditions on Día de los Muertos or Day of the Dead. All Saints’ Day sees families commemorating departed loved ones at gravesites, lighting candles and leaving ofrendas or offerings of bright flowers, candles, photos and favourite foods and drinks of those who passed. Several churches also hold special masses in remembrance.
- Join Ticos in honouring ancestors and reflecting on life’s sacred cycles in a beautiful display of local folklore.
9. El Desfile de Carretas (Late November annually)
Echoing the beloved Festival of the Oxcarts in March, this popular parade gives a second chance to admire the historic vehicle and its skilled driver against the backdrop of Costa Rica’s bustling capital. Decorated oxen pull ornate wooden carts around San Jose’s streets to commemorate a bygone era and way of life. Afterward, artisans, folk singers, and dancing groups entertain crowds in the main plaza with traditional crafts and music. Experience authentic rural culture and warm community pride up close in the heart of the city.
10. Festival de la Luz (Second Saturday in December annually)
To wrap up the year, the vibrant Festival of Light illuminates San Jose in a dazzling spectrum. Starting at dusk, an enchanting parade featuring larger-than-life floats decorated with neon displays, dazzling characters, and performers winds its way along Paseo Colon for over 5 kilometres. Acrobats, flame breathers, and mesmerizing works of moving light art astound onlookers. After, the fun spills into the streets with live music, dancing, fireworks and festive local food and drink. A dazzling sensory experience you won’t want to miss as the holidays near.
As you can see, there is no shortage of amazing cultural events to discover year-round in Costa Rica. Beyond the top 10 things in Costa Rica highlighted here, you’ll also find smaller fiestas, artisan fairs, food festivals, and more happening throughout the country each month. Fortunately, locations like Corcovado National Park, Monteverde, Samara, and the unique town of Drake Bay Costa Rica, offer a wide array of tours and wildlife viewing opportunities no matter when you visit.
Concluding Thoughts
A great way to see multiple areas and experiences is by booking guided multi-destination Costa Rica adventure tours. We at Sukia Travel offer customized itineraries that blend the very best nature and cultural tours for an unforgettable trip. Our professional bilingual guides are also happy to help you plan travel around specific festivals to maximize local authentic experiences.
For the ultimate insider knowledge, one of our 6-8 day group tours provides comfortable transport between destinations, accommodation, delicious home-cooked meals featuring Costa Rican food, and educational guidance to make the most of your limited time. We promise an inspiring trip off the beaten path you’ll cherish forever.
In closing, I hope this list has you excited about all the amazing events to discover on your upcoming Costa Rica getaway. Stay awhile and you’ll understand why locals say “this country has everything”. Que tengas un viaje maravilloso lleno de aventuras – I look forward to showing you around!