Ultimate Guide to Carnival in Panama 2024

The main activity of the summer is almost here, that means a lot of fun events, here are our recommendations.

Carnival in Panama in 2024 would begin on Saturday, February 10 and end on Tuesday, February 13, a day before Valentine's Day, which would also fall on Ash Wednesday.

We created amazing Panama Carnival Music to get you in the mood. 👇

Have you heard of these holidays? water hoses and music, but did you know that there is also great cultural significance to these annual celebrations?

Panama is full of things to do during the days of Carnival, and you're sure to find something you love, no matter your tastes or budget. To help guide you along the way, here are some of the best ways you should spend Carnival in Panama.

1. Head to Las Tablas

Las Tablas has the largest Carnival celebration in the country, which is essentially four days of parades, culecos (water hoses spraying the crowd), food, music, and lots of partying. It's safe, but finding suitable accommodation is complicated and expensive. That said, it is the most important holiday in Panama for many Panamanians every year.

2. Watch a neighborhood parade

Carnaval has some major celebrations that catch the attention of most of the country, but they also have some amazing smaller ones as well. From Capira, Penonomé, Ocú, Virtually every neighborhood, town, or public square has its own local parade, and this is a great way to get to know the local culture. It can be hard to find when listing the smallest events.

3. Carnivals in the city

For years, Carnival celebrations in Panama City were known as something more of the neighborhood, but that has now changed. The city offers a massive and elaborate celebration on Ave Balboa and the Cinta Costera for each day during Carnival. There are large stages with live music and DJs during the night, as well as parades and traditional culecos during the day. There are hundreds of food and drink vendors, and plenty of security, restrooms, and dancing areas throughout the Carnival area. Admission is free, and for those who don't want to travel outside the city, this is a great option.

4. Go to the beach or a Resort

Carnival is also a great time to take a vacation. Whether you're planning a quick trip out of town to destinations like Boquete, El Valle, and Bocas de Toro, or want to go somewhere quiet like a beach resort at the JW Marriott in Buenaventura.

Both airlines and hotels have many promotions for Carnival. Panama's resorts often offer special deals and low-priced packages for this time of year, and much of the country is on vacation for all four days, if not even longer.

Transportation during the first and last day of Carnival in Panama can be a real headache, so be prepared for long waits and be patient.

5. Resting at home

A valid alternative that has become a particular tradition for many, taking advantage of the fact that many people travel to the interior of the country, you have the city just for you, you can take advantage of having relaxed days to go to dinner or watch a movie without many people around you.