Panama City’s historic Casco Antiguo, Panama district will mark its first anniversary as a pedestrian-only zone this Sunday. The event runs from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., drawing artisans, merchants and tourists together for a massive street celebration. City officials announced the milestone during a press conference this week.
The pedestrian initiative, known locally as the casco peatonal, has transformed how people experience the colonial neighborhood. Over 800,000 visitors have walked its cobblestone streets during the first year. That foot traffic generated more than $14.5 million in economic activity, based on average spending for transport, food, local shops and cultural services.
Security Operation Deploys 350 Officers for the Celebration
Authorities have established strict control measures for Sunday’s event. Alcohol is banned. Sharp weapons are prohibited. All citizens entering the area will be subject to registration checks. The Institutional Protection Service (SPI) will deploy more than 350 agents as part of the security operation.
The SPI coordinates this effort with the National Police and tourism officers. It falls under “Escudo Negro,” a broader security strategy for the Casco Antiguo and surrounding areas. Officials said incidents in the zone have remained minimal since the pedestrian program launched.
“We recommend that citizens come, walk and enjoy everything the area offers,” an SPI spokesperson said. [Translated from Spanish]
The agency also urged visitors to remain aware of their surroundings. Security perimeters will be clearly marked. Emergency medical stations will be positioned at key intersections throughout the district.
International Visitors Share Their First Impressions
The pre-event atmosphere already buzzes with excitement. A French tourist visiting Panama for the first time described his reaction upon arrival. He said the city reminded him of “a New York in the Caribbean.” Social media posts about the casco antiguo caught his attention, particularly the views and traditional character.
He already visited the Miraflores locks. He plans to explore the Amador Causeway next. Other tourists shared similar enthusiasm. A female visitor praised the friendly people and lively atmosphere. She said the history of the place adds something special.
A traveler from Jamaica expressed a deeper connection. “We are here to discover our roots. Yesterday we came from Colon and today we are in Panama City. It’s wonderful,” he said.
Local Merchants and Artisans Prepare for High Turnout
Francisco Rodriguez sells goods in one of the plazas. He expects a strong turnout of both Panamanians and foreigners. Artisans from the indigenous comarca noted that their products appeal to both local buyers and international tourists. The economic impact reaches beyond the district itself.
The Alcaldía de Panamá organizes the pedestrian event. Its stated goals include strengthening community coexistence, promoting healthy lifestyles and reaffirming public space as a cultural and family gathering point. Sunday’s anniversary program reflects those values.
Full Schedule of Activities for the Anniversary Event
The program spans the entire district with multiple attractions. Market San Felipe Neri opens at 6:00 a.m. with fried foods, meats and vegetables. At noon, the big “Chacaldo” chicken dish arrives with live music and crafts.
Plaza Herrera hosts a bazaar for donating clothes and shoes in good condition. Pet care services and entrepreneurship showcases run all day. Plaza de Francia transforms into an artistic experience gallery with live painting and mural exhibitions.
The Municipal Building presents “Tamboreras,” a fusion of Panamanian tamborito and cumbia with Cuban son and danzón. This honors creator Ricardo Fábrega. Calle Quinta features La Tasca La Candelaria recreating the “Seville Fair” experience.
Calle Las Molas kicks off the “Tamborito del Callejón” at 2:00 p.m. Participants are encouraged to wear traditional camisilla shirts, hats and pollera skirts. plaza catedral hosts a main stage from 6:30 p.m. with ethnic dances, folkloric performances, salsa orchestras and sweet singing.
Parque Centenario runs from afternoon to midnight with the “White Party” electronic music event. A separate Fonda Flow event takes place Saturday, April 25 at the Alcalde Díaz Municipal Market featuring seafood dishes, music and dancing.
The Summit Botanical Garden remains open Tuesday through Sunday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Online ticket purchases allow expedited entry. The Sunday Recreovía along the Cinta Costera runs from 6:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., starting at the Paitilla overpass and ending at Amador.