The Municipality of Panama invites families to celebrate National Harpy Eagle Day this Sunday, April 12. The event will run from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Summit Botanical Garden, marking both the national bird and the 17th anniversary of the FestiHarpía festival. Organizers designed the day to honor the iconic raptor while promoting broader environmental awareness.
Activities for all ages include educational exhibits, face painting, inflatable games, and conservation talks. A central feature is a costume contest with categories for children ages 2-6 and 7-15. Judges will prioritize creativity and the use of recycled materials in the costumes. Registration remains open until April 11 via email at concursoharpia@gmail.com or by calling 506-8940.
Conservation Takes Center Stage
Municipal officials emphasize the event’s core mission extends beyond celebration. It serves as a key public engagement tool for Biodiversity conservation efforts in Panama. The powerful Harpy Eagle faces threats from habitat loss, making public education critical for its survival.
“This festival is more than a party. It is a call to action to protect our natural heritage and our national symbol,” said a municipal environmental officer. [Translated from Spanish]
Admission covers all scheduled activities. Rates are set at $2 for Panamanians and residents, $5 for foreign visitors, and $1 for retirees and students. Children under five enter for free. The municipality strongly encourages online ticket purchases via pasarela.mupa.gob.pa to avoid lines. Only card payments or the local Yappy system are accepted, with cash payments not permitted at the gate.
This celebration aligns with wider national environmental priorities. The focus on preservation echoes themes discussed at regional leadership forums, such as the recent nico summit attended by President Mulino. Event organizers hope a successful festival will inspire continued community support for Panama’s unique wildlife throughout the year.
