Published on Saturday, July 4, 2026
By the A.M. Costa Rica staff

Happy 250th Birthday, America!

It's that time of year when Americans all across Costa Rica get together to celebrate Independence Day with great friends, amazing food, live music, fireworks, and plenty of fun.

While the American Colony Committee and the U.S. Embassy aren't hosting the traditional Fourth of July Picnic for U.S. citizens this year, the party is definitely still on.

From the beach to the mountains, restaurants, hotels, and clubs are throwing Independence Day celebrations packed with good vibes. Here's where you can join the red, white, and blue festivities.

Bahía del Sol Hotel, Potrero Beach, Guanacaste. Celebrate Independence Day with a special American menu, country music, plus lunch and dinner by the beach. Reservations: 2654-4671.

Rolling Thunder Saloon, Jacó Beach, Puntarenas. The fun starts at 4 p.m. with a classic Fourth of July party featuring all-American food and drinks, live music, and a fireworks spectacular after sunset. For more information, call 6290-0946.

Hemingway's Beachfront Restaurant, Potrero Beach, Guanacaste. Head over at 1 p.m. for an American-themed menu, live music, and fireworks lighting up the night. For details, call 6457-5904.

Ibiza Club, Jacó Beach, Puntarenas. Get ready for Night 4 of the July Party with country music, indie dance, and tech house. Wear your best red, white, and blue outfit and hit the dance floor. The party kicks off at 8 p.m.

Marriott Hotel, Belén, Heredia. Treat yourself to the Independence Power Dinner featuring American favorites, drinks, live music, and a special kids' menu. Everything gets underway at 6 p.m. Reservations: 2298-0000.

Zi Lounge Restaurant, Coco Beach, Guanacaste. Celebrate all day with American favorites, drink specials, and music from DJ Metra beginning at 5 p.m. The evening wraps up with a fireworks show around 9 p.m. Reservations: 8888-3939.

Tap House Restaurant, Santa Ana, San José. Starting at noon, enjoy a relaxed Independence Day lunch and dinner with an American-style menu, cold drinks, DJ music, and fun games. It's the perfect spot to kick back and celebrate.

Los Sueños Marina, Herradura Beach, Puntarenas. Enjoy an Independence Day dinner featuring American cuisine, cocktails, and a live DJ starting at 4 p.m. Reservations: 2630-4050.

Pez Vela Marina, Quepos Beach, Puntarenas. Don't miss the annual Fourth of July Oceansea Party! Expect delicious American food and drinks, live music, games, entertainment, and a fireworks finale. The celebration begins at 4 p.m.

Margaritaville Beach Hotel, Flamingo Beach, Guanacaste. Celebrate with live music, American food, and drinks in a festive beachfront setting. The show starts at 7 p.m. Reservations: 2654-4444.

Recently, the U.S. Embassy held its official Independence Day reception. The event, led by the U.S. Ambassador Melinda Hildebrand, brought together embassy personnel, Costa Rican government officials, including Foreign Minister Manuel Tovar Rivera, and representatives from foreign embassies and organizations allied with the United States.

The United States and Costa Rica have maintained formal diplomatic relations for 175 years. The two countries officially established diplomatic ties in 1851, following Costa Rica's independence and the dissolution of the Central American federation.

From all of us at A.M. Costa Rica, have a wonderful Pura Vida Fourth of July filled with freedom, fun, friendship, and unforgettable memories under the Costa Rican sun.
 

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How should the U.S. Embassy organize an Independence Day celebration for the American community living in Costa Rica? We would like to know your thoughts on this story. Send your comments to news@amcostarica.com