With the holiday season winding down, Costa Rica is gearing up for one of its most awaited programs—the 2025 Palmares Festival. The festival stretches from January 17 to January 27, will be a fun two weeks of movements and colors for over a million visitors yearly.
Held in Palmares, 55 kilometers (34 miles) northwest of San José, the festival offers a mix of tradition, entertainment, and community spirit. Organized by the Palmares Civic Association, it not only delivers endless fun but also supports social welfare initiatives, with a portion of its proceeds benefiting local organizations.
A Festival for Everyone
The Palmares Festival caters to all ages and interests with an impressive lineup of activities. There is a Children’s Festival with lively activities and amusement rides, as well as bullfights and performances by world-famous artists.
One of the most prominent traditions is the Tope equestrian parade, where thousands of riders show off their horsemanship, dazzling outfits, and incredible acrobatics. The parade is a spectacle of skill and style, offering a unique glimpse into Costa Rica’s rich equestrian culture.
Culinary Delights and Nightlife
Food and drink lovers will love the outdoor tents filled with local cuisine and beverages that will make this fiesta come alive. As the sun sets, the festival will transform into a night haven filled with late-night gatherings of music, dancing, and camaraderie.
Palmares: A Town to Make Friends
The official slogan of the festival, “A Town to Make Friends,” captures its spirit. Warm and friendly Ticos and Ticas make Palmares the perfect place to enjoy pura vida lifestyle. Connecting with old friends or making new ones, the Palmares Festival promises to be an unforgettable experience.
Event Details and Tickets
Ticket prices range from 10,000 to 37,000 colones for any given show, and there are lots of cool stuff around so the Palmares Festival should definitely not be missed both by the locals and tourists.
So, mark the calendars because this will surely be an incredible way to experience Costa Rica’s culture, community, and fun as the Palmares Festival takes center stage in 2025—the perfect epitome of Costa Rican festivity.