Panama Carnival in Las Tablas 2024

The Carnival in Las Tablas is the most recognizable event in the country and is celebrated four days before Ash Wednesday. During the carnival, locals form two groups called tunas. One tuna represents the Upper Street, and the other —the Lower Street. On Friday night before the carnival, two rival districts elect their queens and hold coronation ceremonies. One Carnival Queen represents Calle Arriba, which is uptown. The other Carnival Queen represents Calle Abajo, which is downtown. This cross-town rivalry plays itself out in every aspect of the carnival!

In the morning, water, blue dye, and shaving cream fights happen in the central plaza, followed by the two Tunas parades in street clothes. At night the fun doesn't stop with the plentitude of fireworks, festive dances, and street performances lighting up the night sky. After the night parades, each tuna goes back to its Toldo (the base) and join a large dancing party till the early hours of the morning.

Carnival is also celebrated in many other cities of the country, like Penonomé (in the Province of Coclé), Chitré (in Herrera), Chorrera (in the Province of Panamá). In Penonomé, the capital of Coclé province, the parade takes place on the Zarati river and is known for its dance performances in the water.