Panama will transform into a hub for Iberoamerican literature and thought this May. The Festival Centroamérica Cuenta returns for its second Panamanian edition from May 18 to 23, bringing together over 80 writers, artists, and thinkers from 18 countries. The event aims to foster regional dialogue through a diverse program spanning literature, film, journalism, and music.
Organizers detailed an agenda that moves beyond traditional literary discussions. This year’s festival will also explore creative gastronomy, sports, science, urbanism, and cultural tourism. The inclusion of these themes reflects a broader mission to examine how culture fuels societal development and connection.
“It stands out for its cultural richness, connectivity, and interest in literature,” said festival director Claudia Neira Bermúdez, highlighting Panama’s role as a cultural destination. [Translated from Spanish] Bermúdez added that the event seeks to be a major forum for discussing big ideas and building bridges, ensuring a plurality of voices and diversity of thought.
Panamanian Minister of Culture, María Eugenia Herrera, stated the country’s participation reaffirms its commitment to regional cultural dialogue. Herrera emphasized the event projects Panama’s own artistic diversity onto an international stage.
Expanded Reach and New Program Themes
A key development for 2026 is the expansion to the city of Colón. Activities will launch there on May 18 at the Colón Arts and Culture Center. The opening program features literary events, children’s activities, and a cooking workshop led by Panamanian chef Mario Castrellón.
New thematic conversations will feature international experts. Guatemalan chef Sergio Díaz will discuss food, while Mexican neuroscientist Jesús Ramírez Bermúdez will explore the link between creativity and the brain. This interdisciplinary approach is a festival hallmark.
The guest list includes literary luminaries such as Gioconda Belli, Sergio Ramírez, and Fernanda Melchor. Notable authors like Pilar Quintana and Héctor Abad Faciolince will also participate, among others.
Grand Finale with Blades and Díaz
The festival will conclude with a powerful dialogue between two storytelling giants. Panamanian singer-songwriter and actor Rubén Blades will share the stage with Dominican-American writer Junot Díaz. Díaz is a recipient of the Pulitzer Prize for fiction in 2008.
Their conversation will focus on narrating the human experience through different artistic lenses, namely song and the novel. The closing program also includes a live vinyl poetry reading, fusing spoken word with experimental sound.
Events will be held across Panama City’s premier cultural venues. These include the City of the Arts, the Canal Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and the National Library. The festival is organized with support from Panama’s Ministry of Culture and international bodies.
All festival events are free and open to the public. Admission will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis until venue capacity is reached. The wide array of free programming underscores the organizers’ goal of making culture and dialogue broadly accessible.