San José, the vibrant capital of Costa Rica, is a city that pulsates with culture and tradition, offering an array of celebrations, holidays, festivals, and events throughout the year. Costa Ricans, affectionately known as Ticos, are renowned for their festive spirit and love for celebration. The city becomes a kaleidoscope of colors, sounds, and flavors during these times, with each event reflecting the rich heritage and joyous lifestyle of its people.
Major Festivals and Holidays
- Fiestas de San José - In late December to early January, this festival includes bullfights (which are non-lethal), street parties, and concerts, celebrating the end of the year with a bang.
- Día de San José (Saint Joseph's Day) - On March 19th, San José honors its patron saint with religious processions and activities.
- Semana Santa (Holy Week) - Usually in March or April, this week leading up to Easter is marked by solemn processions and reenactments of the Passion of Christ.
- Día de Juan Santamaría (Juan Santamaría Day) - April 11th commemorates the national hero Juan Santamaría with cultural events and parades.
- Día del Trabajo (Labor Day) - May 1st is a public holiday across Costa Rica with rallies and marches in San José.
- Festival Internacional de las Artes (International Arts Festival) - Held biennially, usually in April, this festival showcases local and international performances in music, dance, theater, and more.
- Día de la Independencia (Independence Day) - September 15th marks Costa Rica's independence from Spain with patriotic parades and cultural festivities.
- Día de la Cultura (Culture Day) - Celebrated on October 12th, this day includes activities that celebrate Costa Rica's cultural identity and history.
Other Notable Events
- Transitarte - This festival in March brings art to the streets with music performances, crafts markets, and food stands.
- Feria Internacional del Libro (International Book Fair) - An annual event usually held in August or September for book lovers that features readings and book signings.
- Envision Festival - While not in San José itself but in Uvita, many travelers come through San José to attend this music, art, and yoga festival typically in February or March.
Music and Dance
- Festival de la Luz (Festival of Light) - In December, a nighttime parade illuminates the city with floats, music, and dancing.
- Jazz Café - A venue that hosts live music events year-round, featuring jazz and other genres.
Cultural Celebrations
- Desfile de Boyeros (Oxcart Parade) - An annual event usually in March where beautifully decorated traditional oxcarts parade through the streets.
- Fiesta de los Diablitos (Festival of Little Devils) - In nearby indigenous communities, this event in late December to early January features masks and costumes to represent a battle between the native people and the Spanish conquerors.
Sporting Events
- La Ruta de los Conquistadores - A grueling multi-day mountain bike race that passes through San José in late October or early November.
Food Festivals
- Feria del Chocolate (Chocolate Fair) - A delicious event where visitors can indulge in all things chocolate, often held in July.
- Feria Nacional del Maíz (National Corn Fair) - An event celebrating corn with dishes and drinks made from this staple ingredient, usually in September.
Holiday Season Celebrations
- Nochebuena (Christmas Eve) - December 24th is celebrated with family gatherings and midnight masses called 'Misa de Gallo'.
- Navidad (Christmas Day) - December 25th is a family day with traditional meals like tamales.
- Año Nuevo (New Year's Day) - January 1st is welcomed with fireworks at midnight. The day itself is quiet as families recover from the festivities.
Sign Up For Our Newsletter
Don't miss any Travel News or Limited Time Offers!