Best Places to Visit in Panama for Christmas Cheer

Panama, with its tropical climate and vibrant culture, offers a unique holiday experience for expats and digital nomads looking to get into the festive spirit. While you might not find the traditional white Christmas here, Panama more than makes up for it with its colorful celebrations, lively parades, and festive markets. Here are some of the best places to visit in December to soak up the holiday atmosphere.

Casco Viejo in Panama City

Casco Viejo, the historic district of Panama City, transforms into a festive wonderland during December. The streets are adorned with lights and decorations, and the air is filled with the sound of Christmas carols. One of the highlights is the Christmas parade, "Desfile de Navidad," which features floats, dancers, and musicians, typically taking place in mid-December. The neighborhood is also known for its unique shops and boutiques, where you can find artisanal gifts and holiday souvenirs.

We Recommend: Don't miss the chance to try traditional Panamanian holiday treats like "ron ponche," a local version of eggnog, and "arroz con guandú," a festive rice dish, available at the cozy cafes and restaurants throughout Casco Viejo.

Boquete

Boquete is a small town in the Chiriquí Highlands known for its cooler climate and coffee plantations. During December, Boquete hosts the "Feria de Navidad," where the entire town is decorated with Christmas lights and ornaments. The fair includes a holiday market selling handmade crafts, local produce, and festive food. The town square often features live music and performances, creating a cheerful atmosphere for all visitors.

We Recommend: Be sure to sample the locally grown coffee, which makes a perfect warm beverage to enjoy while strolling through the holiday market or as a gift for friends and family back home.

Altos del Maria

Altos del Maria is a mountain community located in the central mountain range of Panama. During the holiday season, residents decorate their homes with impressive light displays and ornaments. The community often organizes a "Christmas Walk," where visitors can stroll through the neighborhood and enjoy the festive decorations, with the event usually taking place in early December.

We Recommend: Take part in the Christmas Walk to experience the warm hospitality of the Altos del Maria community and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains lit up by holiday lights.

El Valle de Anton

El Valle de Anton, a picturesque town nestled in the crater of an extinct volcano, is another great spot for holiday festivities. The town hosts a Christmas fair with a variety of stalls selling traditional Panamanian crafts, food, and holiday decorations. The fair also features cultural performances and activities for children, making it a family-friendly destination.

We Recommend: Try the "hojaldres," a Panamanian fried bread, often served with powdered sugar, which is a popular treat at the Christmas fair in El Valle de Anton.

David

David, the capital of Chiriquí province, offers a lively Christmas atmosphere with its annual "Festival Luces del Valle." The festival includes a grand parade with floats and marching bands, typically held in early December. The city's central park is a focal point for holiday celebrations, with a large Christmas tree and nightly light shows that captivate both locals and visitors.

We Recommend: Don't miss the light show at the central park, where the dazzling display is accompanied by festive music, creating a magical holiday experience.

Colon

The city of Colon, known for its rich history and cultural diversity, celebrates the holidays with the "Festival de Navidad de Colon." This festival features a variety of events, including a Christmas parade, live music, and dance performances. The streets are lined with vendors selling traditional foods and holiday crafts, offering a taste of the local culture.

We Recommend: Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the Christmas parade, where you can see colorful costumes and feel the rhythm of Panamanian music.

Volcan

Volcan, another town in the Chiriquí Highlands, is renowned for its beautiful natural scenery and agricultural produce. During December, the town hosts a Christmas market where you can find fresh local fruits, vegetables, and flowers, as well as handmade gifts and decorations. The cool mountain air and festive ambiance make it an ideal place to enjoy the holiday season.

We Recommend: Pick up some fresh strawberries and cream, a local delicacy, from the Christmas market in Volcan to savor the flavors of the region.

Playa Blanca

For those looking to combine holiday festivities with beachside relaxation, Playa Blanca is the perfect destination. This coastal area is known for its all-inclusive resorts, which often host special holiday events, including Christmas dinners, beach parties, and fireworks displays. The resorts are beautifully decorated, and the festive spirit is palpable throughout the month of December.

We Recommend: Join in on a beachside Christmas dinner, where you can enjoy traditional holiday dishes with a tropical twist, accompanied by the sound of the ocean waves.

These destinations in Panama offer a unique blend of traditional holiday cheer and local culture, providing a memorable December experience for expats and digital nomads. Whether you're looking for lively parades, festive markets, or tranquil mountain retreats, Panama has something to offer for everyone looking to celebrate the holiday season.