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Published on Friday, January 30, 2026

Brought to you by the Costa Rica Blues Festival

The Costa Rica Blues Festival will reach an important milestone in February 2026, celebrating 10 years of live blues music with a weeklong program that reflects the festival's growth and international reach. The anniversary edition will include multiple performances, community events, and a major outdoor concert in Grecia, Alajuela.

At the heart of the celebration is the main festival day on Saturday, February 21, 2026, hosted at the Club Campestre Griego in Grecia, Alajuela, a spacious and scenic venue located a short drive from San José. Organizers have scheduled over 12 hours of nonstop music, making it a full-day experience rather than a single evening concert.

This year's program places a strong emphasis on collaboration between U.S. blues musicians and Costa Rican artists, continuing the festival's tradition of cultural exchange. Leading the lineup is Terrie Odabi, a California-based blues and soul singer known for her expressive vocals and commanding live performances. Odabi will headline the event and close the night with a special set created for the festival.

 

Several well-known American blues performers will join her on stage throughout the day. Jimmy Carpenter, recognized internationally for his work on the saxophone within the blues genre, is among the featured artists. Mikey Junior, a harmonica player from Philadelphia, will perform and also serve as the event's master of ceremonies, adding humor and energy between sets.

Guitar-driven blues will also play a major role in the anniversary lineup. Craig Thatcher, from Pennsylvania, brings a career built around acclaimed tribute performances honoring Eric Clapton and Jimi Hendrix, while Sparky Parker, a Texas guitarist from Houston, adds a traditional Southern blues influence to the festival's sound.

The venue itself is a key part of the festival's appeal. The Club Campestre Griego offers open lawns, shaded areas, food and beverage service, and access to a swimming pool, creating a comfortable and social environment where attendees can enjoy music throughout the day at their own pace.

Activities extend beyond Saturday with a series of satellite events scheduled throughout the week, including club performances, jam sessions, and smaller showcases in different locations. These events allow audiences to experience the musicians in more intimate settings while supporting local venues and communities.

The weekend concludes on Sunday, February 22, 2026, with Blues, Brews & BBQ, a casual daytime event combining live blues music with barbecue and craft beer. The event has become a favorite among festivalgoers as a relaxed finale to the weekend's main performances.

Over the years, the Costa Rica Blues Festival has developed a loyal following, particularly among North American expats who see the event as a connection to familiar music traditions within Costa Rica's welcoming cultural setting. The 10th anniversary edition is expected to highlight both the festival's history and its future.

For event information, full calendar, and tickets, visit the Costa Rica Blues Festival website.

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The views expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of A.M. Costa Rica. The newspaper assumes no responsibility for the content.
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