Panama Carnival in Las Tablas 2025

The Panama Carnival in Las Tablas is one of the country's most celebrated events, renowned for its vibrant traditions, lively parades, and elaborate costumes. Held annually during the four days leading up to Ash Wednesday, this carnival is a major cultural highlight for locals and visitors alike.

Key Activities and Traditions

At the heart of the Las Tablas Carnival are the rivalries between two districts: Calle Arriba (Upper Street) and Calle Abajo (Lower Street). Each side selects a Carnival Queen who leads her tuna (group) in a series of elaborate parades, performances, and competitions. The rivalry adds an exciting competitive edge to the festivities, with both sides vying for the most impressive floats, costumes, and firework displays.

One of the most popular activities is La Mojadera, where cistern trucks, known locally as culecos, spray water on crowds gathered in the central plaza. This tradition, designed to cool off participants in the hot tropical weather, is accompanied by loud music, dancing, and beverages such as beer and seco (a traditional Panamanian liquor). Visitors are encouraged to wear light, water-friendly clothing to fully enjoy this unique experience.

Evening events are centered around thematic parades, which feature extravagant floats and the Carnival Queens in their dazzling attire. Each night’s parade has a different theme, ensuring there is always something new to see. Festivities continue late into the night with street performances, dancing, and live music.

Schedule and Program

The carnival officially begins on the Friday evening before Ash Wednesday, with the coronation of the Carnival Queens from Calle Arriba and Calle Abajo. The following days, from Saturday through Monday, are filled with a mix of morning water fights, afternoon rest periods, and evening parades with themed floats.

The festivities reach their peak on Tuesday night with final parades and a fireworks display. On Ash Wednesday morning, the celebration concludes with "El Entierro de la Sardina" (The Burial of the Sardine). This symbolic funeral procession marks the end of the carnival and the beginning of Lent.

Location and Accessibility

Las Tablas, located on the Azuero Peninsula, is approximately a 4-5 hour drive from Panama City. The town’s central plaza serves as the main hub for activities. Nearby accommodations range from budget hostels to mid-range hotels, but booking well in advance is essential due to high demand during the carnival.

Nearby Attractions

For those looking to explore beyond the carnival, the Azuero Peninsula offers scenic beaches, charming villages, and cultural sites. Visitors can also enjoy local crafts and traditional Panamanian cuisine in the surrounding area.

Historical Context

The Las Tablas Carnival has its roots in Spanish colonial traditions, blending Panamanian cultural influences over the centuries. Initially a religious celebration marking the pre-Lenten period, it has evolved into a secular event characterized by creativity, rivalry, and community spirit.