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Independence celebrations in Panama City are just warming up
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The Diablicos Sucios from Los Santos and Chitre depicted the
battle between good and evil.
Today is Panama’s Flag Day, yesterday was Panama’s 106th Anniversary of its independence from Colombia, and tomorrow will be Colon Day – celebrations of the day the Province of Colon received the news that they were independent from Colombia. Then there is Independence from Spain celebrated on November 28th.
This month is indeed patriot month, and Panamanians invite the world to join them.
Yesterday started with religious services in churches of all religions in Panama, followed by parades in the streets of Panama City that lasted until late in the afternoon. High school students all dressed up in bright new uniforms played in musical bands as they marched in military style formation, while students of post-secondary institution and private groups marched and danced through the streets in creative choreographies.
The streets along the parade route were lined with families picnicking and viewing the parades. Musical bands and costumed revelers were everywhere; it was almost like carnival in Panama City.
This is the time to visit Panama. Visitors enjoy adventure, historical, medical, and eco-tourism that are the attraction for Europeans, North Americans, and even visitors from other Latin American countries. In addition to the lure of sea, sand, and sun on the shores of two different oceans – Pacific and Atlantic - visitors are drawn to the opportunities for deep sea fishing, great surfing, diving, birding, river rafting, kayaking, and rain forest experiences.
As Panama’s former First Lady Vivian Torrijos said, “In Panama there is the opportunity to swim in both oceans in one day. You can swim in the Pacific Ocean in the morning, have lunch in one of our best restaurants in Panama City, get the fish from the Pacific, and travel to the Caribbean for the sunset - swim in the Atlantic Ocean, lie on the beach, have dinner and a show all in one day. It is just about an hour and a half drive.”
Cultural tourism is another area of attraction, as the natural habitat, customs, and culture of the indigenous tribes are very accessible. As Panama’s Reuben Blades declared, “Panama has seven thriving indigenous Indian cultures which give the country a unique characteristic that allows a visitor to add a different interest to the many tourism options we offer. There are primeval rainforests, mystical cloud forests, cool mountain retreats, pristine beaches and islands, and also seven Indian cultures that take one into the realms of history and anthropology.”
The art and culture of Panama reflect its diverse mix of ethnic Indian tribes, West Indian groups, Chinese, Middle Eastern, Swiss, Yugoslav, and North American immigrants. The colorful Mola of the Kanu Indians, Tagua nut carvings, pottery, wood carving, mask making, and weaving are all characteristic of the arts and crafts of Panama.
Then there is Carnival that reflects the traditions and diversity of the people and different provinces in Panama. Held in January – February before Ash Wednesday and the beginning of Lent, Carnival can be enjoyed in Panama City, Colon Province, and in any of the other provinces. It is a beautiful showcase of the rich folklore of Panama. Visitors can dance in the streets along with the procession, enjoy and participate at the grandstands with the singers and dancers, and enjoy this wholesome entertainment with families and friends.
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