While Americans were heading to the polls to vote for their 44th president, Panamanians had already begun celebrating. They were not celebrating the victory of Barack Obama as the next U.S. president, but their own independence.
Panama Flag
We left Costa Rica for Panama yesterday. Our visit will be short, a week to visit Panama City and a chance for all of us to learn about the Panama Canal. We found it difficult to find somewhere to stay for the week, and in fact will have to move and stay at 2 hotels during this short trip.
Our hosts picked us up from the airport and told us that November is a month of celebration in Panama and that in fact yesterday all businesses were closed. As we drove through the city it was quickly evident a celebration had begun.
Panama Independence Celebration
On November 4th Panamanians celebrate Flag Day, and is one of several important independence dates within the month of November.
On November 3rd Panamanians celebrate the foundation of their republic. On November 5th the celebrate their independence from Columbia. On November 10th they celebrate “the first cry for independence from Spain, and on November 28th they celebrate their complete independence of Spain.
We were able to spend some time enjoying these celebrations, marked by more marching bands than I have ever seen in one place.
Panama Celebration
Street after street, mile after mile of marching bands!
Panama Marching Band
Panama Celebration
Both young and old participated. How cute is this little guy?
It was loud, and exciting, and a fun way to start our week in Panama. Even Gigi was eager to get into the action…
by Sean
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