Each year, Panamanians celebrate their Independence Day on November 28th. This day marks the independence of Panama from Spain in 1821.
An equally important national holiday for Panama, known as Separation Day, is celebrated earlier in the month, on November 3rd. Separation Day celebrates the formal separation of Panama from Colombia in 1903. When Panama gained independence from Spain in 1821, they gained their freedom from colonizers and were a part of Gran Colombia - a union of independent states along with Ecuador, Venezuela, Peru and others. Having voluntarily joined Gran Colombia, they enjoyed sovereignty and statehood within the union.
However, Panama's separation from Gran Colombia eighty-two years later is what resulted in the establishment of the Republic of Panama. This is when Panama became a truly independent country in which the power was held by the people through their own elected representatives.
Many Panamanians differ in which day marks true independence for the country but both are celebrated with equal importance throughout the country. Aside from these independence days, there are other important dates throughout the month of November that relate to the country's political independence. This is why the month of November is considered to be the Month of the Motherland or “El Mes de la Patria”, a month dedicated to the Motherland of Panama.
“Fiesta Patria” generally refers to the patriotic holidays celebrated by Spanish-speaking countries. In Panama, it refers to the series of non-religious holidays celebrated in November. Fiesta Patria in Panama is made up of five official holidays. In addition to Separation Day and Independence Day, there is also Flag Day, celebrated on November 4th, Colon Day, celebrated on November 5th, and Los Santos Uprising Day, celebrated on November 10th.
Panama’s independence days and all of Fiesta Patria is celebrated with various military and civilian parades, commemorative political speeches and cultural events that highlight the identities of Panama across the country. Locals wear traditional costumes and traditional food is served throughout the country. Student and civilian-led parades are filled with marching bands, firework displays, and traditional dances and music. El Mes de la Patria is also a time of strong internal tourism. There is no work in government, banks, schools and other non-tourism private companies. Cities tend to be rather empty as families and locals head towards the beach and visit local tourist destinations.
Another unique holiday specific to wear Lacrosse the Nations operates in Panama, is Bocas Day! Bocas Del Toro became a province of the new Republic of Panama on November 16th, 1903, just days after Panama’s separation from Colombia. Events and activities are held across the province, with the largest celebrations happening right here in Bocas Town! It has clearly been a very exciting month here in Bocas and our staff here on the ground has loved being able to experience the various cultural activities happening in town.
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