It’s that time of year again. Honestly, I can’t believe that this will be my third Christmas as an expat living in Panama. Unfortunatley, this year, I’m not heading home to be with my family and friends. Because of that, I want this year to be extra special. I’m looking for the perfect combination of holiday events, giving, receiving, a little culture and surrounding myself with the best holiday vibes. With that said, I put together a list of 12 Days of Christmas to make this season amazing, not just for me, but others that are looking to soak up the Christmas spirit.
1. LIGHTING OF THE TREE CINTA COSTERA
Sunday, November 30th, kick off the season right with the lighting of the Christmas tree on the Cinta Costera at Fuente Anayansi. The tree lighting is only the beginning. There will be live bands, light shows and tons of fun for the whole family. The event is set to begin at 6pm, so mark your calendar!
2. GIVE A GIFT TO A CHILD IN NEED – SONRISAS QUE BRILLAN
The Mayor’s office, Alcaldía de Panamá, has put together the “Shining Smiles” gift drive for kids that might not otherwise receive a present this year. Choose a new, educational gift for a child between the ages of 5 and 12 and deliver it to the ground floor of the El Hatillo building underneath their Christmas tree. Items will be collected from now until December 31st.
3. THE NUTCRACKER
The National Theater, is a beautiful place to see a Christmas show. This venue is in a word: opulent. Rows of seats covered in red velvet, beautiful light fixtures and golden woodwork make the experience that much more special. The Nutcracker is a timeless Christmas classic and is a must-do at the beautiful Teatro Nacional de Panamá. The magic of Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker ballet will totally captivate your child´s imagination. Make 2025 the first year of a new family tradition. Tickets can be purchased at Panatickets.com. This year, the Nutcracker runs from December 4th to the 14th with prices starting at $23.
4. SIT ON SANTA’S LAP
Nobody wants Santa to be confused when it comes to making his annual Christmas list, so you better get your little ones to see Santa súper rápido. Santa’s workshop is already open at Multiplaza. Just have your child write their letter at home, register him/her at the link in the Multiplaza Instagram profile and arrive with a screenshot of the registration for this one-of-a-kind free experience. The workshop is located on the second floor between Mumuso and Oscar de la Renta. Check their IG for dates and times.
5. CHRISTMAS CAROLS AT THE NATIONAL THEATRE
Every year the Teatro Nacional de Panamá, opens its doors to the public during the first weekend of December to put on this free and fabulous Christmas Carol program. I have been twice and it’s really wonderful. These performers are super-talented and they sing everything from American classics to some tropical gems that I still need to learn. Dates and times are still to be announced.
6. TAKE IN THE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS
I don’t know anyone who doesn’t love Christmas lights. Getting out and about over the weekend, I saw that all the prep for 2025 is already under way. The Cinta Costera and public parks all over the city do a wonderful job of creating holiday magic that turns tropical Panamá into a holiday wonderland. These are a must do from Parque Urraca to Omar, start checking off your list early.
7. BUY LOCAL
I always love checking out the artisanal markets in Casco Viejo. On weekends check out Plaza de La Independencia for locals selling everything from jewelry to molas. Heading toward Las Bovedas on the coast, you’ll see shops and street vendors selling souvenirs and Panamanian made crafts. There are some really beautiful, quality items that make great gifts for that person who wants something unique.
8. ICE SKATING
Panamá might be a tropical country, but for years now, Multiplaza has been putting out the winter vibe with their seasonal ice skating rink with the stunning Swarovski Christmas tree smack dab in the middle. If you already know how to skate, it’s a great chance to get out on the ice again. If it’s your first time, enjoy!
9. TRY SEASONAL TREATS
One of the coolest things about living abroad is the chance to try new foods and participate in different traditions. These are just some of the most popular treats you’ll see at this time of year.
Tamales are corn dough filled with different meats or cheeses and are a very traditional holiday treat. Though they are available throughout the year, tamales are often given to friends and family as a gift because they resemble little gifts wrapped in a banana leaf. Making tamales also brings family members together for important holidays and family events.
Ron Ponche is Panama’s version of eggnog. It’s a mix of evaporated and condensed milks, egg yolks, rum, and nutmeg, garnished with a little sprinkle of cinnamon. This boozy Christmas libation is a sweet and delicious way to keep the Christmas vibe going.
Rosca de Reyes or Three King’s Bread is a traditional Latin treat that is typically eaten on Epiphany or Three Kings Day, January 6th. This sweet bread symbolizes the story of Joseph and Mary who sought to protect baby Jesus from King Herod. Traditionally the bread has a plastic baby baked into the protective ring of dough covered in dried fruits and a sugary glaze. It’s favorite among children and nostalgic adults.
10. CHECK OUT THE CHRISTMAS PARADE
The annual Christmas parade down Calle 50 is an extravaganza that families come out in droves for. Last year’s parade was next level with illuminated floats, drones and bands ringing in the Christmas spirit. Gather along with thousands of your Panamanian friends on December 14th beginning at 3pm, with the night time parade ramping up from 6-8pm to witness the spectacle, La Ciudad de las Estrellas.
11. ATTEND A CHRISTMAS MASS
Cathedrals hold services or Christmas masses throughout Ciudad de Panama. Find a place to gather near you and enjoy a new cultural experience commemorating this most important of holy days. After all, Jesus is the reason for the season.
12. SURROUND YOURSELVES WITH LOVED ONES
Living as a solo expat here in Panamá, I have chosen a little family of BFFs from my hiking group. These are the people that keep me sane and happy being away from the ones I love back home. Plan something special with your local favorites like a special dinner, gift exchange, holiday drinks or a hike on one of Panama’s many beautiful trails.
Wishing everyone the most feliz Navidad y prospero año to date!!!