Each year, La Fortuna in Alajuela transforms during the Fiestas de San Carlos, a vibrant festival that pulses with the energy of local culture and the wild spirit of Costa Rica’s northern lowlands. This celebration takes place over several days and mixes music, parades, traditional foods, and competitions—all set against the backdrop of La Fortuna’s striking landscapes.

The heart of the festival revolves around community pride and cultural heritage. Streets come alive with colorful floats, dancers dressed in folkloric costumes, and the steady beat of marimba and drums. The atmosphere is electric but grounded, a reminder of the town’s history and its ongoing relationship with the land. Attending allows visitors to not just watch but participate in a tradition fiercely embraced by locals.

Practical details help make the most of your visit. The festivities typically kick off in late November or early December, depending on the year, running for about a week. Key events happen in the town square and surrounding parks, so comfortable footwear is critical—expect to walk several kilometers while moving from concerts to food stalls and artisan markets.

Weather during this time is generally dry, though sudden tropical breezes may stir up, letting cool air push at festival-goers. Carry a light rain jacket just in case—and stay hydrated as you move through the crowds under the midday sun.

The terrain around La Fortuna is more than just the festival site. Just minutes away rises Arenal Volcano, its forested slopes daring visitors to explore trails ranging from simple walks to challenging climbs. Many adventurous festival attendees combine the cultural experience with hikes in the national park, where the wind whispers through trees that stand watch over volcanic rock and hot springs bubbling below.

If planning a day between festival events, consider the Rio Celeste waterfall hike—10 kilometers round-trip with a moderate elevation gain of about 300 meters. The trail snakes through dense rainforest, where sunlight flickers like a restless spirit and the river’s currents hiss as if daring you to keep pace. It’s a direct contrast to the festival’s surface energy but equals it in intensity.

Fiestas de San Carlos is a unique chance to engage with La Fortuna’s local culture and adventurous surroundings simultaneously. It’s practical enough for first-timers, lively enough for seasoned travelers—and rich with moments that inspire a renewed respect for a land that’s always deeply itself.

Wear sturdy shoes, pace yourself, and be ready to step into a community where tradition and terrain meet head-on.