Carnaval: What’s It All About?

Carnaval is Panama’s most anticipated event each February, surpassing even Christmas in excitement. It’s a time when thousands of people from all over the country gather to dance to booming music, while extravagant parade floats and elegantly dressed carnaval queens parade down the streets. Unlike Brazil’s carnaval featuring bare-breasted women on floats or Ecuador’s water-filled celebration, Panama’s carnaval is all about the party. Families save up all year to fund their carnaval escapades, sometimes resorting to selling belongings if necessary. The entire country comes to a standstill during carnaval week, with no business conducted and appointments postponed until after the festivities. Even protests and strikes take a pause during this time, as carnaval holds sacred status in Panama. Despite the chaos, carnaval is an all-inclusive celebration where people of all ages come together to revel in the festivities. Whether you plan to join the party or escape the madness, experiencing carnaval in Panama is an unforgettable adventure.