Schedule

Carnival is celebrated on the four days before Lent. Though there are some variations in the celebrations around Panama, this is the general schedule followed during these four days of partying.

Friday: On the first night of Carnival, the Queen is selected among aspiring candidates. The party’s sovereign then parades around, celebrated by her people. Music plays non-stop and people dance in the streets, surrendering to the contagious atmosphere of joy.

Saturday: The coronation ceremony takes place amid more music and dancing. Parades take over the streets and people enjoy the refreshing mojaditas. At night, high-end clubs, bars, and pretty much any place with a dancing space hosts an indoor Carnival party.

Sunday: Besides the continuous parades and parties, the special event of the day is the pollera parade. Polleras are the national costume, and hundreds of women and girls take to the streets to celebrate their history in their gorgeous and colorful dresses.

Monday: More parades and parties are held. Usually this is the most laid back day of Carnival, since people rest a bit in preparation for tomorrow, the culmination of the entire party.

Tuesday: As it is the last day of Carnival, it is the biggest and most important. Some of the most extravagant floats and costumed brigades parade down the streets, surrounded by an air of exquisite chaos and festivity. Finally, party-goers will gather to watch the fireworks display, which will signify the end of the festivity and the beginning of Lent.