Costa Rica’s National Theatre is celebrating its 129th anniversary with a special program featuring more than 30 activities throughout October 2026. Organized by the Ministry of Culture and Youth (MCJ), the initiative brings together concerts, dance performances, literary events, guided tours and cultural activities for audiences of different ages.

The celebration aims to bring this iconic venue closer to the public while highlighting its role in the country’s cultural history. Many of the activities will be free or offered at accessible prices, with events taking place both inside the theatre and in public spaces across San José.

An Anniversary That Brings Culture Closer to the Public

The anniversary program runs throughout October and showcases a variety of artistic expressions, both national and international. Activities include classical and popular music performances, dance shows, literary gatherings and tours of the historic building.

According to the Ministry of Culture and Youth, one of the main goals of the celebration is to strengthen the connection between the National Theatre and the public by facilitating access to the arts and promoting appreciation of Costa Rica’s cultural heritage.

The program offers activities for different audiences, ranging from concerts and stage performances to educational events highlighting the traditional crafts associated with the theatre’s history.

A Weekend of Free Concerts and Guided Tours

On Saturday, October 17, at 7 p.m., one of the main events will be Gandhi Sinfónico, a performance bringing together Costa Rican band Gandhi and the Orquesta Universal.

The celebrations will continue on Sunday, October 18, with a new edition of Travesía, an event offering free guided tours of some of the building’s most emblematic spaces. Tours will run from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., with groups entering every 20 minutes.

That same day, the festivities will extend to Plaza de la Cultura. Starting at 2 p.m., Orquesta Lubín Barahona y sus Caballeros del Ritmo will perform a free concert. At 6 p.m., audiences can enjoy a performance by Costa Rican reggae band Un Rojo Reggae Band.

These activities aim to expand access to cultural offerings and turn the anniversary into an open celebration bringing artists and audiences together.

Music, Dance and Literature Throughout October

The program features a variety of musical genres and artistic traditions. Among the highlights is Patio de las abuelas, a multidisciplinary dance performance directed by Rogelio López and scheduled for October 21 and 22. The production explores the influence of different cultures on the development of Costa Rican identity.

The international program will also feature the Astor Piazzolla Quintet, performing Le Grand Tango on Friday, October 23, and the flamenco ballet Carmen vs. Carmen, scheduled for October 24 and 25.

Literature and cultural memory will also have a place in the celebrations. On Tuesday, October 27, the Teatro al Mediodía series will welcome Son Semillas and Guadalupe Urbina for the concert Canto y memoria de la gran madre. Later, on Thursday, October 29, historian and playwright Jorge Arroyo will deliver a lecture titled Un siglo con Lope en el Teatro Nacional.

The anniversary program will conclude on Friday, October 30, with the tenth concert of the Costa Rican National Symphony Orchestra’s season.

A Building That Is Part of the Country’s History

Costa Rica’s National Theatre opened on October 19, 1897, and has since become one of the country’s most important cultural landmarks. Its construction was linked to the economic development of the late 19th century and the desire to promote the performing arts in the capital.

Beyond its role as a performance venue, the building is renowned for its architecture and the artistic works it houses. Its historical significance has made it a key part of Costa Rica’s cultural heritage and a gathering place for generations of artists and audiences.

Today, the National Theatre maintains an artistic program throughout the year and offers guided tours that allow visitors to explore its historic spaces and learn about its cultural significance.

The celebration of its 129th anniversary highlights the institution’s continued role as a center for artistic creation, preservation and dissemination.

How to Take Part in the Activities

Those interested in attending can consult the complete program through the official channels of Costa Rica’s National Theatre. Tickets for performances requiring admission are available at the physical box office and on the institution’s official website.

The free guided tours scheduled for Sunday, October 18, are part of the special anniversary celebrations. For other tours and performances, visitors are encouraged to check admission requirements, schedules and availability in advance.

Through this program, the National Theatre celebrates more than a century of history while opening its doors to new generations and reaffirming the importance of keeping cultural heritage accessible and alive.

Official Sources

• National Theatre of Costa Rica. “History Comes to Life: Ministry of Culture Celebrates 129 Years of the National Theatre with Music, Dance, Literature and Open Doors.” October 8, 2026.
• Ministry of Culture and Youth (MCJ). Institutional information on the history, preservation and cultural programming of Costa Rica’s National Theatre.
• Ministry of Culture and Youth (MCJ). Official Cultural Agenda, information on events and performances at the National Theatre.