Carnival / Shrove Tuesday / Pancake Day in Panama

In Panama, Carnival (known as "Carnavales") is a significant celebration that takes place before the liturgical season of Lent. Shrove Tuesday, also referred to as Pancake Day in some cultures, coincides with the last day of the Panamanian Carnival. However, unlike some countries where pancakes are a tradition on this day, Panama has its unique customs.

History and Traditions

• Pre-Lenten Festivities: Carnival is a tradition with Catholic roots designed to allow revelry before the austerity of Lent's 40 days of fasting and penitence.
• Spanish Influence: The tradition was brought by Spanish colonists and has since become one of Panama’s most vibrant celebrations.
• Crowning of the Queen: A central feature is the crowning of the Carnival Queen who presides over the festivities.
• Music and Dance: Traditional music such as salsa, merengue, and tipico (folk music) accompany copious dancing throughout the celebrations.
• Parades and Floats: Lavish parades featuring floats and costumed dancers are common; these can be particularly extravagant in cities like Las Tablas and Penonomé.

Activities on Shrove Tuesday

• Last Day Celebrations: As Shrove Tuesday marks the end of Carnival, it's often celebrated with heightened enthusiasm. People take to the streets for one last day of partying before Ash Wednesday.
• Water Fights: In some areas, friendly water fights are a popular tradition, with both locals and tourists partaking in dousing each other to cool off from the heat.
• Food: While pancakes aren't a feature here as they might be elsewhere on this day, traditional Panamanian food is enjoyed such as fried yuca, empanadas, and rice dishes.

Shrove Tuesday concludes with much fanfare in Panama as people immerse themselves in cultural traditions before the solemn period of Lent begins.