Production crews are putting the final touches on the main venue for Panama City’s official Carnival celebrations, which begin in just four days. The Municipality of Panama is transforming the Cinta Costera into a massive festival ground expected to draw thousands of local and international visitors.
Event organizers confirmed the coastal strip will feature three strategically placed main stages. A luxury lineup blending top national talent with renowned international artists is set to perform across five days of festivities. This municipal-led event aims to restore the capital’s reputation for hosting spectacular large-scale public celebrations.
Aramis Cornejo, the event’s lead organizer, provided exclusive details on the artistic schedule designed to light up the city’s nights. The programming runs from Friday through Tuesday, with performances beginning at 8:00 p.m. each evening.
“We have a program that combines the best of our local genre with international attractions to offer a complete experience,” Cornejo said. [Translated from Spanish]
The festival gates will open much earlier than the evening concerts. Traditional daytime “culecos,” where water trucks spray dancing crowds, will take over the cinta costera from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. daily. This offers a refreshing respite from the intense seasonal sun.
Family Focus and Safety Measures Highlight Planning
Organizers have dedicated a specific zone for children, addressing both safety and family entertainment. This area will feature mechanical rides and games operating from 5:00 p.m. until midnight. The Municipality of Panama emphasized that creating a secure environment for all ages was a primary planning objective.
Logistical teams have been working around the clock to install infrastructure, including stages, sound systems, security fencing, and vendor areas. The city’s cleanup and sanitation departments are also coordinating closely to manage the expected high volume of attendees and maintain public health standards.
“This is about delivering a celebration that lives up to Panama’s tradition. We are focused on every operational detail, from traffic flow to medical services,” a municipal spokesperson stated. [Translated from Spanish]
Local businesses, particularly those in the hospitality and food service sectors, anticipate a significant economic boost. Hotels in the downtown area report high occupancy rates for the Carnival period, which is a national holiday in Panama.
The festival represents one of the largest single public events hosted by the capital since the pandemic. Its scale signals a full return of major cultural gatherings. Final rehearsals for stage productions and sound checks are scheduled for Thursday, one day before the official opening.