Panama’s Carnaval ranks among the most spectacular celebrations in Latin America. More than 1 million people participate in Panama’s Carnaval festivities each year. This four-day festival preceding Ash Wednesday transforms the entire country into a whirlwind of color, music, and revelry. From the historical importance to modern day manifestation, this guide to will set your up for how spend Carnaval in Panama, 2025. Whether you’re planning a trip or simply curious about this fascinating celebration, Panama’s Carnaval offers a unique window into the country’s vibrant cultural identity.
THE HISTORY OF CARNAVAL
Carnaval is a centuries old tradition with roots in the Roman Catholic church. In the days preceding lent, people make a point of eating, drinking and being merry before beginning their period of penance. The origins of Carnaval celebrations in Panama date back to the Spanish colonial period when groups paraded through the city streets dressed as Spanish royalty, conquistadors, slaves and indigenous peoples ushering in forty days of abstention. Over the years Carnaval grew in importance and, finally, in 1910, mayor Jose Agustín Arango officially recognized Carnaval celebrations.
EVENTS IN PTY, 2025
In the past year, the holiday seasons have seen a shift. With a newly-elected mayor who is making good on promises to modernize and reform near and far. Initially there was some doubt as to whether or not there would be Carnaval celebrations at all in the capital city. After all, smaller towns like Las Tablas and Chitre benefit substantially from tourist dollars pouring into the local economies. At the end of the day, Carnaval will happen in the city this year. Celebrations will start at 9am Friday, February 28th and wrap up at 12am on Wednesday, March 5th. For a schedule of events, visit, Alcaldia de Panamá.
WHAT TO EXPECT IN PANAMA CITY
Expect partying, partying and more partying. The four day festival is all about dancing, music, drinks and cultural traditions. Look for concerts and street vendors catering to thousands of Carnaval goers in the city along the Cinta Costa and Avenida Balboa.
“Comparsas” are an integral part of Carnaval celebrations. These local bands and dancers march to the beats of their own drums playing everything from modern murga and salsa to samba and pop songs. The party atmosphere is contagious as revelers dance with spectators that line the parade route.
The “carrozas,” or floats, are a next level display of flamboyance: allegorical works of arts featuring ice kingdoms, African animals and exotic princesses are just a few of the characters on display that do not disappoint. The colors are spectacular and the bejeweled, feathered costumes call to mind a scene out of Rio de Janeiro.
Keeping cool in Panama is a daily challenge and in the enormous crowds at Carnaval relief is a must. The answer? Los Culecos or water hose. The scene is full-on fiesta as water trucks pump out thousands of gallons of water to cool carnavaleros.
Finally, the Carnaval queen is the pièce de la résistance. The queen is chosen based upon her mother’s neighborhood, This luckiest of girls represents beauty and the festive spirit of her barrio or “neighborhood.”
CARNAVAL IN THE COUNTRYSIDE
Many Carnavaleros head out to “the interior” of Panama for the holidays. Oftentimes, they travel to visit their family who hail from places outside of the city. Smaller towns like Las Tablas, Chitre, Penonomé and Pedasi throw mega-parties just might crush the big city competition.
PRO TIP: If you plan on visiting Las Tablas for Carnaval, keep in mind that you need to make your reservations as early as one year in advance. This is the THE place to party if you love Carnaval. This celebration pits historic rivals Calle Arriba and Calle Abajo against one another in a friendly competition that attracts locals and visitors alike for music, floats, fireworks, shaving cream fight, adult beverages and more.
UNTIL NEXT YEAR
Panama’s Carnaval wraps up with the traditional “entierro de la sardina” or burial of the sardine. This ritual is part of a funeral procession parody. The sardine is said to represent the past or winter is buried and then burned ushering in lent and spring: times of rebirth and renewal.
Panama’s Carnaval is a testament to the country’s rich cultural heritage and its people’s love of life. From the competitive floats of Las Tablas to the water-drenched streets of Panama City, this celebration offers an unforgettable glimpse into Panamanian identity. Whether you’re dancing to music, admiring elaborate carrozas, or enjoying local cuisine, Carnaval provides an authentic experience unlike any other festival in Latin America. Start planning your visit to experience the magic of Panama’s biggest party—you’ll return home with memories to last a lifetime!