New Year’s Day (1 January), Martyrs’ Day (9 January), Labour Day (1 May), Flag Day (4 November) and Independence Day (24 November) are some of the important public holidays in the country.

Christmas is the most important religious festival in Panama which is celebrated with much fervour. The Festival of the Black Christ (celebrated in Portobello) is celebrated with a similar gusto.

Carnaval, celebrated for four days preceding Ash Wednesday, is a festival full of colour, fun and enjoyment. It is celebrated with a lot of enthusiasm in Panama City and Las Tablas which is marked by dancing, singing, colourful parades, masquerades and so forth. The cities, markets, etc. are crowded with people, and it is recommended to make prior reservations if visiting Panama during this festival.