The Municipality of Panama has issued an official decree outlining traffic restrictions and regulations for the upcoming Caribbean Volume Carnival Festival in 2026. A key section of the Cinta Costera will close to vehicles for four days starting February 13. The event aims to bring traditional carnival celebrations directly to the heart of Panama City.
From noon on Friday, February 13, 2026, the coastal roadway between Avenida Ecuador and the November 3 Viaduct will be completely shut down. This closure facilitates the festival which runs from 6:00 p.m. that Friday through 4:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February 17. Organizers promise a full schedule of artistic performances, traditional “culeco” water parties, and recreational activities.
Building on Past Success with New Family Features
City advisor Isaac Brawerman confirmed the festival will largely follow the successful format of the previous year. Several key improvements were added after reviewing public feedback from earlier events. The goal is to provide a comprehensive urban carnival experience without residents needing to travel to the interior provinces.
“In general, we are keeping the same format as last year, with some improvements resulting from having listened to attendees’ comments,” said Isaac Brawerman, an advisor to the Mayor’s Office. [Translated from Spanish] “There will be plenty of fun, recreation, and a carnival in the city. Hours remain until 4 a.m. and alcohol sales will end at 3 a.m., just like last year.”
The festival will not crown a carnival queen, distinguishing it from other major celebrations. It will, however, feature parade groups called “comparsas” to evoke traditional festivities. Organizers have specifically expanded family-oriented offerings. The children’s area will now operate until midnight, a one-hour extension from the previous 11 p.m. cutoff.
Major stages for nighttime artistic presentations will be located at the Pacific Lookout area. The frontal zone near the water will host the daytime culecos from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. An expanded children’s zone will include mechanical rides and games, aligning with requests for more family enjoyment time. This focus on local business and community engagement is part of a wider strategy seen in initiatives like the expanded cinta costera business incubator network.
Strict Security Measures and Prohibited Items
The official decree establishes clear prohibitions to ensure a safe environment for all attendees. Security will be a top priority throughout the long weekend. Joel Hurtado, the chief of the police zone, emphasized that the rules are designed to maintain a family-friendly atmosphere.
Banned items include coolers or ice chests, firearms with or without permits, bladed or sharp-pointed weapons, and any glass containers. Authorities also prohibit costumes that mimic security force uniforms or that could disturb public order. These measures aim to prevent confusion and potential incidents during the large, crowded event.
Violations of these regulations will carry significant penalties. Officials stated that individuals committing infractions could face fines ranging from 50 to 1,500 US dollars. Additional administrative sanctions may also apply depending on the severity of the offense. Police plan a visible presence to enforce these rules consistently.
This urban festival represents a growing trend of bringing major Carnival celebrations into metropolitan centers. It offers an alternative for city dwellers and tourists alike. With the decree published well in advance, residents and businesses along the Cinta Costera route have ample time to plan for the February 2026 traffic disruptions and festivities.