Depending on your objectives for a visit to Panama, you may or may not want to visit during major national holidays.
Holidays in Panama are filled with music, dancing, good foods, lots to drink, and an overall joy shared by men, women, and children. However, they result in many businesses being closed and somewhat limited transportation (or buses that are filled to the brim as people head to visit family or celebrate in other parts of the country). Depending on the holiday, hotels may be booked full or charge a higher fee to stay the night.
National holidays include:
01 January: New Year’s Day
09 January: Martyr’s Day
Good Friday
Easter Sunday
01 May: Labor Day
15 August: Founding of Old Panama (Panama City only)
12 October: Hispanic Day
02 November: All Souls’ Day
03 November: Independence Day
04 November: Flag Day
10 November: First Call for Independence
28 November: Independence from Spain
08 December: Mother’s Day
25 December: Christmas
Carnaval, which falls the four days before Ash Wednesday in February, also is widely celebrated, with large festivals in Panama City, on the Azuero Peninsula, and (to a lesser extent) in most towns and cities across Panama.
In mid-August the school children have their semester break, which is usually marked by a party and discoteca in each community. Also, at any time a community may have a festival, discoteca, or feria (fair). Take the opportunity to experience the Panamanian culture!
Recently, Panama has become a popular destination for Spring Break (falling some time in March for most US universities). If you plan to visit during this time, make reservations for hotels in Panama City and in major beach areas (Bocos del Toro, Santa Clara, Azuero Peninsula) or you may not find space to sleep!
Come and share in the festivities or plan your trip during a peaceful time and get the most out of your visit to Panama!
Comments
Remember as well big festivals, such as the Boquete Coffee and Flower Festival in January. This is supposed to be a huge event that lasts at least a week, and can impact travel to the Boquete area if one is not aware. I think the 2010 festival is set for the 2nd week in January.
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