Ocaso Festival, the boutique underground music event that has become a cornerstone of Costa Rica’s vibrant music scene, is set to return with an exciting new chapter in 2025.
Taking place on Friday, January 31 – Saturday, February 1, 2025 at its new location sitting right next to one of Costa Rica’s premier surf beaches, Playa Hermosa. Ocaso Festival offers an unforgettable experience that blends expertly curated House and Techno programming with the stunning natural beauty of the Pacific coast.
The festival’s eighth edition will feature performances from Black Book Records label boss Chris Lake and underground trailblazers The Martinez Brothers. Funny enough, the festival will be their Central American debuts. Ocaso will also welcome Brazilian selector Vintage Culture for a mesmerizing headlining performance. The lineup will also host Techno duo Kasablanca, rising House star Riordan and Afro House tastemaker Maz. Bringing the heat, Space Miami resident DJ Layla Benitez and a bevy of talented local Costa Rican artists will perform.
New Location
For its 2025 event, Ocaso Festival is relocating to Playa Hermosa, which is 10 miles from the bustling nightlife of Jaco and a short trip away from Costa Rica’s most iconic attractions, including Manuel Antonio and La Fortuna’s waterfalls. This surrounding beach offers the perfect backdrop for a festival that has always emphasized intimacy and connection, providing attendees with natural splendor as they immerse themselves in the music.
Ocaso Festival also boasts a plethora of experiential excursions that offer attendees the chance to explore and connect with Costa Rica’s natural beauty. In the days after the festival, patrons can participate in curated group tours with fellow Ocaso attendees to some of the country’s most idyllic locations, from the Arenal Volcano in La Fortuna and hot springs to the natural wonders of Manuel Antonio and Corcovado National Park. During the festival weekend, attendees can explore Jaco and purchase activity packages such as ATV rides, catamaran cruises, and crocodile tours to ensure an immersive weekend adventure.Â
History of Ocaso
Ocaso has always focused on creating an inclusive underground culture and safe space where everyone feels welcome. The festival is rooted in the principles of PLUR — Peace, Love, Unity, and Respect — which remain central to its ethos. Ocaso Festival creates a festival atmosphere that encourages freedom of expression. It aims to ensure that everyone feels loved and free to be themselves.
Since its inception in 2017, Ocaso has grown. It went from a small gathering of 800-900 people in Tamarindo to a must-attend event. From its early days, it has featured artists like Claptone, Art Department, Jamie Jones, and Loco Dice. In recent years, headliners such as Michael Bibi, Solomun, Bob Moses, Dixon, and Damian Lazarus have played there. Ocaso has stayed true to its underground ethos while steadily growing in size and reputation.Â
Over the years, Ocaso Festival has retained its boutique size and intimate feel. In effect, The capped attendance maintains a family-like atmosphere. The festival draws a mix of local attendees and adventurous travelers from around the world. As a result, it creates a unique vibe that sets Ocaso apart from other festivals in the region.
The festival dates from Friday, January 31 – Saturday, February 1, 2025. It will coincide with the end of festival season in Tulum, Mexico. Tickets for Ocaso Festival 2025 are now on sale.
