Panama City authorities are intensifying efforts to drive tourism through a monthly pedestrian initiative in the historic district. The program, called Casco Peatonal, has drawn nearly 800,000 visitors since its launch. City tourism director Karla Duque confirmed the next event is scheduled for May 31.
The pedestrian zone transforms the Casco Antiguo (Panama) district into a car-free gathering space on the last Sunday of each month. Duque said the city government is committed to expanding family-friendly and recreational activities. The goal is to attract both local residents and international tourists to explore the area’s cultural offerings. “We are committed, as the Panama City Mayor’s office, to promoting all these family and recreational activities so that all Panamanians, national and international tourists, visit these attractions,” Duque stated. [Translated from Spanish]
Cultural Events and Family Activities Planned for May 31
The upcoming pedestrian day will feature several distinct attractions. Casa de la Municipalidad will host events celebrating Black ethnic heritage. Visitors can explore a food market at San Felipe Neri offering Afro-Antillean cuisine, a traditional element of these cultural celebrations. Cathedral Plaza will serve as the stage for a salsa orchestra performance.
The evening program includes “Luna Llena de Tambores,” or Full Moon of Drums, designed for family enjoyment after 6 p.m. A trading card exchange tied to the World Cup will take place at Plaza Quinto Centenario. Organizers expect this to be the largest such event in Panama City. The May 31 program will also broadcast the Panama national team match, allowing fans to support the “marea roja” without missing the pedestrian zone activities.
“This is one of the reasons we hold the pedestrian zone: to stimulate the economy of businesses in the historic district. We have received more than 14 million dollars into the Casco Antiguo economy through this initiative,” said Karla Duque, director of tourism for the Panama City Mayor’s office. [Translated from Spanish]
Economic Impact Reaches 14 Million Dollars
City data shows the pedestrian program has generated significant economic activity. Officials reported approximately 800,000 total visitors across 13 Sunday events. Foreign tourists account for 15 percent of that total. The initiative has injected more than 14 million dollars into the local economy of the historic district.
The program aims to support local merchants while giving tourists a chance to experience the area. City authorities also regulate noise levels and maintain open communication with residents. “We are also committed to upholding our own laws and our own regulations,” Duque said, emphasizing the city’s dedication to compliance and dialogue. [Translated from Spanish]
The pedestrian zone will continue on the last Sunday of each month with activities planned through the rest of the year. Parking is available at the Puerta Sur lot. Visitors can access the historic district easily via 13th Street or 12th Street, where additional activities and security measures will be in place. Panama City Tourism officials expect continued growth in visitor numbers as the program expands.