Q COSTA RICA — In observance of the apparition of the “Virgen de Los Ángeles” (Our Lady of the Angels), Patron Saint of Costa Rica, the U.S. Embassy and Consular Section in San José will be closed on Friday, July 31, 2026.
The Embassy and Consular Section will reopen to the public on Monday, August 3, during regular business hours from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Virgen de Los Ángeles, affectionately known as “La Negrita,” is the official patron saint of Costa Rica. Her main feast day is celebrated every August 2nd, a “pago no obligatorio” (not mandatory) holiday according to the Labor Code.
The event brings together faithful in one of the largest displays of faith in Central America.
History and Discovery
- The origin: The story dates back to August 2, 1635, in the Pardos neighborhood of Cartago.
- Juana Pereira: According to tradition, a young indigenous woman named Juana Pereira found a small sculpture of the Virgin Mary with the Child Jesus carved on a dark stone.
- The miracle: Juana took the image home, but it repeatedly disappeared, only to return to the same spot in the woods where it had been found. This was interpreted as the Virgin Mary’s wish that a temple be built on that exact spot.
Current Traditions
- Romeria (The Pilgrimage): Millions of romeros (pilgrims) from all over the country walk enormous distances to the Basilica of Virgen de Los Ángeles in Cartago to fulfill vows or ask for miracles.
- La Pasada (Procession): On August 3, a traditional procession takes place where the image is carried from the Basilica to the Cathedral of Cartago, returning to its formal altar a month later.