Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Festival del Manito Ocueño
Among the country's best folkloric events, this three-day bash features traditional music
and dancing, and culminates in a country wedding. Held the third week of August in the
rural village of Ocú.
September
The rain usually lets up a little, particularly around Panama City. Still low
season, it's a good time to travel around the country with no need of reser-
vations.
Feria de la Mejorana
In late September, Panama's largest folkloric festival draws musicians and traditional
dancers from all over the country to tiny Guararé on the Península de Azuero. With ox-
cart parades and
seco
cocktails, it's a fun time to soak up tradition. (
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)
October
October 12 is Día de la Raza (Colombus Day), a dubious legacy nonethe-
less celebrated by every high school brass band letting loose. Throughout
Panama, some very different yet excellent festivals are well worth attend-
ing.
Festival of Nogagope
Kunas converge on Isla Tigre for three days of tireless traditional dancing. It's visually
engaging and fully authentic. Held from October 10 to 12, it's followed by a three-day
fair with art shows and canoe races. (
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)
Festival of the Black Christ
On October 21, thousands honor the black Christ in Portobelo. Many make the pilgrim-
age on foot from the capital. Miracles aplenty have been attributed to the black Christ.
After a nighttime procession there's dancing and drinking til the wee hours.
