The Santa Monica Fair in Coclé Panama

The Santa Monica fair will take place this year from August 26th until August 28th in Santa Monica, Coclé. This year the fair grounds, Hacienda Santa Monica, will have new access roads leading to and from the fair, making getting in and out easier.

The fair grounds are located 10k from the Playa Blanca resort, just under an hour from Coronado Panama just off the Panamarican Highway. There will be signs leading to the fair grounds indicating when you should turn off the highway. 

The Santa Monica Fair aimed is an agricultural fair aimed at promoting tourism in the province of Cocle. The annual family event showcases the diversity and culture of the region and its people (coclesanos). The fair offers tourists from all over the country the opportunity to connect with this unique region in Panama, while providing the trades people of the province the opportunity to market their products. 

The fair takes place annually at the end of August, attracting more than 35,000 visitors from all over Panama. Last year more than 80 coclesano exhibitors were in attendance, selling over $ 35,000 in products. According to a study by Deloitte firm, the economic impact the Santa Monica Fair had on the local economy of Cocle was over $ 350,000. 

The funds raised from the 2015 were put towards improving local schools.  Major improvements were made in  El Chirú and Juan Hombrón Schools. The improvements included large renovations like new bathrooms, ceilings, kitchens and more. 

This year's fair activities include several races including a Duathlon (5k run 20k bike 2.5k run), a 20k bike race and races of 5k and 10k. Inscription prices are $30 for the duathlon, $10 for the bike race and $20 for the run. The races being at 7:00 a.m. on August 28th. Inscription can be done in the city at Latin Bike on Calle 50, the Pro Health Shop or the San Francisco Tri Store. Inscription can also be done during the event. 

Other events taking place over the weekend include a rodeo, bull exhibition, an exhibition for the best milk producer in the region, and sports events for kids.  

The fair is organized by the Hacienda Santa Monica Foundation and is supported by dozens of sponsors. Proceeds from this year’s fair will be used towards new social projects in the province of Cocle, focused on education.