Festivals and events around La Fortuna through the year

A warm, honest guide to the main festivals and community events in La Fortuna, from local saint days to national holidays, with tips on how to join in.

La Fortuna is more than a base for volcano views and hot springs. It is a living town where families have farmed and celebrated for generations. If you time your visit right, you can join local festivals that fill the streets with music, food, and a sense of community. These events are not tourist shows. They are genuine gatherings where ticos (Costa Ricans) honor their traditions, and visitors are always welcome.

This guide covers the main festivals and events you can expect around La Fortuna through the year. Dates shift slightly from year to year, so always check local calendars a few weeks ahead. But the spirit of each celebration stays the same: warm, unhurried, and full of life.

Fiestas Patronales (Patron Saint Festivals)

Every town in Costa Rica has a patron saint, and La Fortuna celebrates its own in mid March. The Fiestas Patronales honor San Isidro Labrador, the patron saint of farmers. For about a week, the central park fills with food stalls, carnival rides, and a lively fair. There are horse parades (topes), bull riding events (not bullfighting, but rodeo style), and dances at night. This is the biggest local event of the year. If you are in town during March, head to the park in the evening for a true taste of pueblo life.

Semana Santa (Holy Week)

Semana Santa, the week before Easter Sunday, is a national holiday. In La Fortuna, many locals attend church services and processions, especially on Good Friday. The streets become quieter as families gather at home. Most restaurants and tours still operate, but expect reduced hours on Thursday and Friday. It is a good time for a slower pace, nature walks, or visiting the La Fortuna Waterfall early in the morning before crowds arrive. If you want to see a traditional Catholic procession, walk to the main church on Friday afternoon.

Independence Day (September 15)

Costa Rica celebrates its independence from Spain on September 15. The festivities start the evening before with the faroles (lantern parades). Schoolchildren walk through the streets carrying handmade lanterns, and the whole town gathers in the park. On the 15th itself, there are flag ceremonies, traditional music, and a parade down the main street. It is a joyful, family friendly event. Join the crowd at the central park around 5 pm on the 14th to see the lanterns light up the night.

Fiestas de los Diablitos (Brunca Indigenous Festival)

While not in La Fortuna itself, this festival takes place in the Brunca indigenous territory near the southern Pacific coast, about a three hour drive. It usually happens in late December or early January. The festival reenacts the struggle between the indigenous people (the Diablitos, or little devils) and the Spanish conquistadors. It involves traditional masks, dancing, and drumming. If you have extra time and a car, it is one of the most authentic indigenous celebrations in the country. Check with the local tourism office in La Fortuna for exact dates and travel advice.

Christmas and New Year

December in La Fortuna is warm and festive. The town decorates the central park with lights and a nativity scene. On Christmas Eve (Nochebuena), families gather for late dinners and fireworks. Many restaurants offer special holiday menus. New Year's Eve is celebrated with more fireworks and a lively atmosphere in the park. If you are staying in town, join the locals at midnight for a toast and a walk around the square. Most tours run as usual between Christmas and New Year, but book ahead as accommodations fill up.

A final tip

To catch a local event, stop by the La Fortuna tourism office near the central park. They can tell you what is happening during your visit. Or simply ask your hotel host. Ticos love to share their traditions. If you are in town for a festival, bring cash for food and crafts, and wear comfortable shoes for dancing or walking. The best way to experience these events is to show up with an open mind and a smile.