Celebrating Carnival in Panama
As the pre-Lenten season kicks off across the globe, two major celebrations stand out: Carnival and Mardi Gras. While often used interchangeably, these two traditions have distinct differences in meaning, scope, and cultural expressions. But how does Panama, a country known for its legendary Carnavales, fit into the mix? Let’s break it down.
Mardi Gras vs. Carnival
Mardi Gras: The Grand Finale of Indulgence
Mardi Gras, which means “Fat Tuesday” in French, refers specifically to the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday. It is the final day of revelry before the solemn fasting period of Lent begins in the Christian calendar. The tradition has deep roots in France and spread to places with strong French Catholic influence, such as New Orleans, Louisiana.
In the United States, Mardi Gras is synonymous with grand parades, masquerade balls, and the throwing of colorful beads. The traditional colors—purple (justice), green (faith), and gold (power)—adorn the floats and decorations, while King Cake (a sweet pastry with a hidden baby figurine) is the signature treat.
Carnival: A Global Season of Celebration
Unlike Mardi Gras, which is just one day, Carnival is an entire season that can last for weeks or even months. Derived from the Latin carne vale (meaning “farewell to meat”), Carnival is a period of indulgence before Lent. It is celebrated worldwide, most famously in Brazil, Venice, Trinidad & Tobago, and the Caribbean.
Carnival is marked by elaborate costumes, samba parades, music, and dance, creating a festive atmosphere that blends both European and African influences. Each country adds its own unique cultural flair, with massive processions, masked balls, and even food fights in some regions.
Where Does Panama Fit In?
In Panama, Carnival—known locally as Los Carnavales—is the biggest party of the year. It lasts four to five days, from the Friday before Ash Wednesday through Carnival Tuesday (which aligns with Mardi Gras). Unlike New Orleans, where beads and jazz rule, Panama’s Carnival is defined by water fights, vibrant parades, and rivalries between beauty queens.
Panama’s Unique Carnival Traditions
Culecos – During the day, partygoers gather in town centers to dance under massive water sprays from tanker trucks. Given Panama’s tropical heat, this is both a tradition and a necessity!
Parades and Queens – Towns like Las Tablas, Chitré, and Penonomé host competing processions featuring two rival queens: Calle Arriba (Up Street) vs. Calle Abajo (Down Street). These competitions fuel months of preparation, extravagant floats, and all-night celebrations.
Music and Dancing – While Mardi Gras is known for jazz and brass bands, Panama’s Carnival is powered by salsa, reggaeton, típico (folk music), and Caribbean beats.
Food & Drinks – Expect delicious frituras (fried snacks like empanadas and hojaldres), seafood dishes, and endless rum-based cocktails.
The Burial of the Sardine – This mock funeral on Ash Wednesday symbolizes the end of the festivities and the beginning of the Lenten season.
How Panama’s Carnival Compares to Mardi Gras
Feature | Panama’s Carnival | New Orleans’ Mardi Gras |
Length | 4-5 days (Fri-Tue) | Mainly 1 day (Fat Tuesday) |
Main Attraction | Water parties (Culecos), music, parades, queens | Floats, beads, masquerade balls |
Biggest City Celebration | Las Tablas, Panama City | New Orleans, Louisiana |
Music Style | Salsa, reggaeton, típico (folk music) | Jazz, brass bands, Zydeco |
Signature Food | Frituras (empanadas, carimañolas, hojaldres) | King Cake, jambalaya, gumbo |
Carnival @ Mike's
This year Mike's will focus on Gumbo and Hurricanes today, Fat Tuesday. With Caribbean music this Friday, March 4th. With Island Breeze and various Caribbean favorites this Friday. Check out our website for all the info.