Paseo Colón will once again become a gigantic urban park free of vehicles and pollution. The Municipalidad de San José has officially announced the return of “Domingos Familiares sin Humo” (Smoke-Free Family Sundays), an initiative aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles, sports, and the enjoyment of the capital’s public spaces—completely free of charge.
For 2026, the activity will extend across four key dates, incorporating for the first time Parque Metropolitano La Sabana as the venue for its closing event.
Municipal authorities confirmed the following dates and locations:
- February 15 and 22: Paseo Colón (road closures from 24th Street to 42nd Street).
- March 1: Paseo Colón.
- March 8: Grand closing event at Parque Metropolitano La Sabana, in commemoration of International Women’s Day.
The event will feature recreational activities spread across several city blocks, offering options for all ages:
For children:
Bicycle circuits (for ages 2 to 9), a Go-Kart track, giant inflatables, painting workshops, and mobile plant nurseries.
Sports and adrenaline:
Professional wrestling exhibitions, an urban Skate Park, a skating rink, and traditional games.
Pets:
The “Healthy Pets” zone will include pools, ramps, obstacle courses, and grooming services for companion animals.
Culture and Environment:
Canine Police demonstrations, PhotoBooths, and a recycling campaign where attendees can exchange materials (glass, plastic, and aluminum) for promotional items.
To ensure public safety, the Ministerio de Obras Públicas y Transportes (MOPT) and the Municipal Police will implement road closures along Paseo Colón from 5:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on the scheduled Sundays. Drivers are advised to use alternative routes.
San José Mayor Diego Miranda highlighted that the 2026 edition places special emphasis on decarbonization and on honoring distinguished institutions such as the Costa Rican Fire Department, which celebrates its 160th anniversary this year. Families are invited to “take over” the city in a safe, clean, and smoke-free environment.
