Welcome to the vibrant world of festivals and events in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, where culture and tradition come alive in a dazzling display of celebration. From mesmerizing parades to rhythmic music and dance, Guanacaste offers an enchanting tapestry of festivities that will immerse you in the rich heritage of this breathtaking region.
Every year, the region comes alive with a wide array of events that showcase the colorful traditions and vibrant spirit of the local community. Here are the festivals and events you can experience in Guanacaste Costa Rica.
Festivals and events calendar in Guanacaste
To make the most of your visit to Guanacaste, planning your trip around the region’s festivals and events calendar is important. While some events have fixed dates, others may vary from year to year. It’s advisable to check the official websites or consult local tourism offices for the most up-to-date information.
Here is a general overview of some of the major festivals and events in Guanacaste:
1. Fiestas Típicas Nacionales Santa Cruz (early January) – This week-long celebration shuts down the entire local governments and banks as everyone in the community participates in this celebration of live music, dancing, parades, traditional carnival foods, games, and carnival rides, horse shows and the most famous bull rings. It is common to see locals dressed in “cowboy” and “cowgirl” type outfits and there are musicians with horns and drums cheering on the riders.
Image Source: https://www.instagram.com/p/C2ylEjfOjlP/?hl=en
2. Ocaso Music Festival (January) – This festival is a renowned electronic music event that takes place in the beautiful beach town of Tamarindo. Held annually, this festival showcases an impressive lineup of international and local DJs and producers, spanning various sub-genres of electronic music such as house, techno, deep house, and tech-house. Attendees can expect to dance the night away to pulsating beats and immersive soundscapes provided by some of the most talented artists in the industry.
Ocaso Underground Music Festival has gained a reputation for its vibrant atmosphere, high-quality music, and stunning locations, making it a must-visit event for electronic music lovers looking for an unforgettable festival experience in Costa Rica.
Image Source: https://ocasofestival.com/
3. Fiestas Civicas (late February) – A week-long celebration in Liberia commemorating the annexation of Guanacaste to Costa Rica in 1824. The streets come alive with vibrant parades, traditional music, and dance performances. The highlight of the festival is the Tope Nacional, an equestrian parade where riders showcase their horsemanship skills while adorned in traditional costumes. The Fiestas Civicas is a must-visit event for anyone looking to experience the rich cultural heritage of Guanacaste. Brasilito has their Brasilito Fiestas Civicas in February. Matapalo has their Matapalo Fiestas Civicas in December.
Image Source: https://nicoyapeninsula.com/es/cobano/fiestas-de-cobano/
4. Envision Festival (March) -The festival takes place in the southern part of Costa Rica, near the town of Uvita, which boasts stunning beaches and dense rainforests. Envision Festival is a dynamic gathering of music, art, yoga, and sustainability set in the lush jungles near Uvita. It features diverse music acts, workshops on topics like permaculture and holistic health, and activities such as yoga and meditation. The festival emphasizes sustainability and community, offering a transformative experience for attendees.
Image Source: https://www.envisionfestival.com/
5. Tamarindo International Surf Film Festival (March)- Held in the picturesque coastal town of Tamarindo, this festival brings together surf enthusiasts, filmmakers, and artists from around the world. It is a notable event that celebrates the culture, lifestyle, and artistry of surfing through film. It features a diverse lineup of surf films, along with panel discussions and art exhibitions, all set in the scenic coastal town of Tamarindo known for its exceptional surf breaks and vibrant atmosphere.
Image Source: https://www.facebook.com/tamasurffilmfestival/photos_by
6. BPM Festival (March)- The BPM Festival is a big music party that happens in different cool places around the world during the summer. It began in 2008 as a small gathering for “Bartenders, Promoters, and Musicians,” which is why it’s called BPM. Over the years, it has become huge, with more than 70,000 people attending, including DJs, music producers, and fans. With an impressive lineup of over 400 DJs and 80+ events, it’s a highlight on the calendar for music lovers. In 2020, the BPM Festival came to Costa Rica after being in Portugal and Mexico for many years. This move shows that Costa Rica is becoming popular for dance music events. Now, Costa Rica has three big music festivals in the first part of the year: BPM, Envision, and Ocaso.
Image Source: https://thebpmfestival.com/gallery/
7. National Boyero Day (March) – This event celebrates the traditional cultural heritage of the country’s ox cart drivers, known as “boyeros.” This annual event takes place on the second Sunday of March and pays homage to the important role that ox carts have played in Costa Rican history and agriculture. One of the highlights of National Boyero Day is the “Tope de Boyeros,” a parade of boyeros showcasing their skill in maneuvering the colorful and intricately designed ox carts through the streets. Throughout the day, there are also cultural activities, food stalls offering traditional Costa Rican cuisine, and opportunities for visitors to learn more about the history and significance of the ox cart tradition in Costa Rica.
Image Source: https://ticotimes.net/2023/03/12/celebrating-cultural-heritage-a-look-at-national-boyero-day-in-costa-rica
8. Lantern Festival (September)- also known as the “Festival de los Faroles,” is an annual celebration held on September 14th, the eve of Independence Day. Communities across the country gather to illuminate the night with lanterns and candles. Originating from a tradition before independence, families, schools, and neighborhoods create intricate lanterns depicting patriotic symbols or Costa Rican folklore scenes. This festival symbolizes unity, community spirit, and national pride, honoring Costa Rica’s history and heritage.
Image Source: https://www.sensorialsunsets.com/en/independance-du-costa-rica-le-defile-des-lanternes/
9. Independence Day (September) – celebrated on September 15th, marks the country’s freedom from Spanish colonial rule in 1821. It’s observed with patriotic parades, cultural events, and traditional food, highlighting Costa Rica’s heritage and values of democracy and peace. The day typically begins with the raising of the national flag and the singing of the national anthem. Parades fill the streets, featuring marching bands, dancers, and displays of traditional costumes. Spectators wave flags and cheer as they celebrate their country’s freedom and heritage. Throughout the day, there are cultural performances, concerts, and street festivals showcasing Costa Rican music, dance, and cuisine. Traditional dishes like gallo pinto (rice and beans) and tamales are often enjoyed with family and friends.
Image Source: https://www.chfusa.com/blog/
10. Festival de la Luz (December) – this is one of the most anticipated events of the holiday season, typically held in December. It’s a spectacular parade of lights that illuminates the streets of San José, the capital city, with colorful floats, marching bands, and festive performances. Thousands of spectators line the streets to watch the procession, which features elaborately decorated floats adorned with thousands of twinkling lights. These floats depict scenes from traditional Christmas stories, local folklore, and cultural themes.
Image Source: https://ticotimes.net/2023/12/17/costa-rica-dazzles-at-2023-festival-of-lights-parade
Guanacaste, Costa Rica, is a region brimming with rich cultural heritage, and its festivals and events provide a gateway to experiencing the vibrant spirit of the local community. From traditional celebrations to cultural showcases, music, and dance festivals to food and drink extravaganzas, there is something for everyone in Guanacaste. So, pack your bags and get ready to be swept away by the delightful festivals and events.
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