November 4th is an important date in Panama, as it marks the celebration of Symbols of the Nation Day.
These National Symbols represent a significant part of a country’s culture, heritage, and history. While every citizen should always keep them in mind, in Panama they are honored on November 4th, as these are the elements that mark a series of events that gave rise to our Republican life.
Through Law 34 of 1949, Panama adopted the following as the Symbols of the Nation:
National Flag:
Divided into four quarters, its beautiful tricolor (blue, red, and white) represents us around the world. It was designed by Manuel E. Amador, while the first Panamanian flag was sewn by María Ossa de Amador. In its quadrants, the Conservative Party is represented by the color blue, and the Liberal Party by red, while white symbolizes the peace and unity that should prevail in the nation. The blue star represents purity and honesty, which should guide the civic life of the homeland, and the red star stands for authority and law.
National Coat of Arms:
Born from the originality, creativity, and precision of Don Nicanor Villalaz, its design captures the key moments of our history—from Panama’s separation from Colombia on that afternoon in 1903, to the nation’s wealth, progress, nature, and the struggles of countless Panamanians of that era.
National Anthem:
Its melody and lyrics express the feelings, ideals, and hopes of all Panamanians. The music was composed by Don Santos Jorge, and the lyrics were written by Don Jerónimo Ossa.
On this day, students and delegations from across the country take part in civic parades, performing lively tunes filled with patriotic spirit to express their respect for history, sovereignty, and the National Symbols that distinguish Panama — the cradle of the Interoceanic Route.