November is Panama’s Month to Celebrate
November is a month packed full of national holidays and celebrations here in Panama. Each year the festivities begin with a bang at midnight of November 2nd, as the bands start to play and women dressed in colorful polleras and intricate headdresses dance through the streets. Bands composed of drums, trumpets and bugles, called Dianas begin to play. These are the elements of Panama’s long standing traditions and are instrumental in celebrating November’s national holidays. Celebrations go on loud and long, so expect ample noise if you live near a town center. This celebratory month also brings closures of streets, banks and public offices. With days off scattered throughout the month, very little seems to get done in the country. November 3 – Separation from Colombia This day commemorates Panama’s separation from Colombia and is the beginning of las Fiesta Patrias (Patriotic Parties) in Panama. On August 12, 1903 Colombia refused to sign the Herran-Hay agreement between the US and Colombia, which would allow for the construction of a canal through Panama. This was the straw that broke the camels back so to speak, and a reason among many to end Colombia’s 80-year rule over Panama. On November 3, 1903, with the support of the US, Panama leaders declared the Republic of Panama a fully sovereign nation.
November 4 – Flag Day
On November 4 1903, the Panamanian flag was paraded through the streets for the first time. The flag was designed as the separatist movement gained momentum and before Panama actually gained independence. The blue, red and white flag represents purity and honesty (blue), law and authority (red) and peace (white).
November 5 – Colon Day
At dawn on November 3, 1903, a Colombian ship armed with 500 Colombian soldiers, docked at the Bay of Colon with the intention to take back the port and march to the capital (Panama City). On the 5th Panamanians in Colon averted the march to the city reaffirming the countries separation from Colombia.
November 10 – The Uprising in Los Santos
On November 10, 1821, El Primer Grito (the first cry) for independence came from the village of Los Santos. While Panama City was already preparing for independence from the Spanish Monarchy, their intentions were accelerated by the declaration made by residents of the Azuero.
November 28 – Independence Day
On November 28 1821, Panama gained its independence from Spain, and willingly joined Colombia. 80 years would pass before Panama would be come the independent nation it is today.
This month Panamanians citizens and residents celebrate Panama as an independent nation that has grown in to the true bridge of the Americas. Parades take place all along the Playa Communities signifying the role each community played in getting the country to where it is today.
Take part in the local festivities:
November 3rd – Parade in Chame
This parade begins early in the morning starting at the town square across from the church in Chame. Local school bands participate, marching along the vibrantly decorated streets. The girls dance national folk dances in traditional polleras and headdresses. The parades last until the last school band preforms.
November 4th – San Carlos Sarao
A Sarao - a daytime club, takes place in San Carlos on this day. Samy and Sandra Cristobal the famous brother and sister duo from Chitre attend the event each year.
November 28th – Parade in Chorrera
The parade will begin early in the morning and go till the late hours of the evening. As the local schools preform, and dance traditional dances the town will gear up for a night of festivities. Discotecas will be lively till the early hours of the 29th!
