Every December 8th, Panama is filled with flowers, music, and smiles to celebrate mothers, symbols of love, devotion, and strength. It is a date deeply rooted in the hearts of Panamanians, coinciding with the religious feast of the Immaculate Conception, intertwining devotion and family in a celebration unique to the region.
Religious Masses and Family Gatherings in Panama
In Panama City, the day begins with catholic masses in honor of mothers, where many families attend dressed in white to pay tribute to the Virgin Mary. Afterward, homes become festive settings: tables are laden with traditional dishes such as arroz con pollo (chicken and rice), tamales, and homemade desserts. Parks, shopping centers, and restaurants overflow with families seeking to spend time together, while flowers—roses, lilies, and sunflowers—become the most symbolic gift of the day.
Serenades and Cultural Activities in Penonome
In Penonome, the atmosphere feels more intimate and traditional. From early morning, serenades with guitars and accordions awaken mothers with traditional songs and tender verses. In the churches, communities organize masses and cultural events in honor of mothers, followed by family lunches outdoors or at local eateries. The Cocle spirit is reflected in simple yet loving gestures: a flower picked from the garden, a hug, or a meal prepared with love.
Festivities and School Events in Santiago
In Santiago de Veraguas, the celebration takes on a festive and communal tone. The main squares fill with folkloric performances, school competitions, and craft fairs that bring together entire families. It is common for schools to organize events with traditional dances and poems dedicated to mothers, while local radio stations broadcast messages and greetings. In homes, the day becomes an opportunity to bring together several generations around the table, sharing laughter, stories, and traditional dishes.
Traditional Music, Tamboritos and Polleras in Las Tablas
In Las Tablas, Mother’s Day is celebrated with the spirit of the Los Santos region: traditional music, drumming, and pollera dresses proudly showcase the country’s cultural heritage. Communities organize serenades and luncheons where mothers are the guests of honor, and where parades and gatherings are held to symbolically choose the “Mother of the Year”. Devotion also plays a central role, with processions and masses in which the maternal figure is associated with faith and protection.
Celebration in Parks and Family Trips in David
In David, in Chiriqui province, the celebration blends tradition and modernity. Parks and boulevards are decorated with flowers and messages alluding to the day, while shopping centers offer special promotions and activities for mothers. Many families choose to enjoy a trip to Boquete or Volcan, taking advantage of the cool climate and mountain scenery to share moments of peace and togetherness. Local radio and television stations broadcast tributes that celebrate the strength and resilience of women from Chiriqui.
Mother’s Day celebrations in Panama reflect the Panamanian heart, which unites each year to honor the women who give life and guide their families with wisdom.
