Celebrate Like a Local: Costa Rica’s Most Iconic Festivals

Costa Rica is a country where nature, tradition, and culture are celebrated with vibrancy and authenticity. Beyond its natural wonders, the nation’s annual festivals bring to life the spirit of its people joyful, proud, and deeply rooted in tradition. For couples seeking experiences that go beyond sightseeing, attending Costa Rica’s festivals offers an intimate window into local culture while enjoying comfort and exclusivity.

Each festival can become a private journey front-row views, curated tastings, and exclusive encounters seamlessly arranged with luxury accommodations. Here are four of the country’s most captivating festivals that invite you to celebrate like a local, with experiences few travelers ever enjoy:

Annexation Festivities – Guanacaste

Every July, Guanacaste comes alive with the Fiestas de la Anexión, honoring the historic annexation of the Nicoya region. The air fills with marimba music, folkloric dances, and horseback parades showcasing the province’s rich traditions. Couples can enjoy private cultural performances at haciendas, intimate dining with regional cuisine, and exclusive accommodations that highlight the spirit of Guanacaste without sacrificing privacy.

Limón Carnival – Limón

On the Caribbean coast, Limón hosts the vibrant Carnaval de Limón every October, a festival bursting with Afro-Caribbean rhythm, colorful costumes, and lively street parades. While thousands line the streets to dance and celebrate, couples can enjoy curated parade views, private access to local food tastings, and accommodations that balance the vibrancy of the festival with the tranquility of luxury. It’s a rare opportunity to experience Caribbean culture in comfort and exclusivity.

Zapote Festivities – San José

In the capital city of San José, December closes the year with the Fiestas de Zapote, Costa Rica’s largest traditional fair. Carnival rides, bull-riding events, music, and food stalls define this festive period. Couples can enjoy local dishes in a private setting, access VIP areas, or return to boutique hotels in the city for serene nights away from the lively fairgrounds. Here, tradition and exclusivity meet in the heart of Costa Rica.

Mascarada Festival – Heredia

Heredia’s Festival de la Mascarada, celebrated in October, showcases Costa Rica’s iconic “payasos” (giant masked figures) accompanied by traditional cimarrona bands. It is one of the country’s most authentic cultural expressions, rooted in centuries of heritage. Couples can enjoy behind-the-scenes access to mask-makers, private workshops on the artistry, and curated viewing spots. Paired with luxury eco-lodges in the Central Valley, this celebration becomes both a cultural immersion and an intimate experience.

Why Experience Costa Rica Festivals?

Costa Rica’s festivals are more than cultural events they are authentic expressions of heritage, tradition, and joy. From Guanacaste’s Fiestas de la Anexión and Limón’s Carnaval de Limón, to San José’s Fiestas de Zapote and Heredia’s Festival de la Mascarada, each festival gives couples the chance to witness Costa Rica’s vibrant culture in unforgettable ways.

Experiencing these festivals with Best of Costa Rica DMC means enjoying access, exclusive encounters, and luxury accommodations while immersing in the local traditions. Every detail is designed for couples seeking authenticity, comfort, and privacy. Travel and discover Costa Rica, where local culture and exclusivity combine to create memories that last a lifetime.