The Panama City Municipality will close the historic district to vehicle traffic this Sunday, February 22, creating a temporary pedestrian zone. The “Casco Peatonal” initiative aims to transform the UNESCO World Heritage site into a safe, cultural gathering space for families and tourists from 8:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m.
Residents and visitors can freely walk the cobblestone streets of Casco Viejo (Panama City), exploring its historic plazas, churches, and colonial architecture without traffic. The program coincides with a special cultural event titled “Vive tu Carnavalito” at the City Hall building from noon until 6:00 p.m.
Cultural Festival Merges Heritage with Carnival Spirit
Officials designed the day to blend Panama’s architectural heritage with its vibrant carnival traditions. The “Vive tu Carnavalito” event will feature live folkloric presentations, traditional Tumbadora (Panamanian drumming), murgas, and batucada performances. Local artisans and food vendors will offer typical Panamanian crafts and cuisine throughout the afternoon.
Mayor José Luis Fábrega emphasized the event’s community focus. He invited all citizens to enjoy this unique urban experience.
“We invite everyone to share with their ‘combo,’ enjoy the activities, and take a breather in one of the capital’s most representative sites,” said Fábrega. [Translated from Spanish]
The Panama City Municipality organizes the full day’s programming. This pedestrianization effort follows other attempts to revitalize the historic center, an area sometimes challenged by preservation and security concerns. A recent casco antiguo corruption case highlighted ongoing administrative challenges in the district.
City planners hope the temporary casco peatonal / Pedestrian Casco will demonstrate the potential for permanent pedestrian-friendly reforms. The creative economy, which includes cultural tourism and events, now represents a significant portion of Panama’s GDP. Events like this support that growing sector directly.
This Sunday’s closure provides a test case for future urban planning. It allows officials to gauge public response to car-free streets in the densely built neighborhood. The initiative also arrives amid broader national conversations about public space and security, topics highlighted this Sunday by religious leaders calling for community renewal.
Attendance is free and open to the public. Organizers recommend using public transportation or ride-sharing services, as on-street parking within the closed zone will be unavailable. The event promises a full day of tradition and coexistence, uniting Panama’s rich heritage with its festive carnival spirit in a single, walkable space.