November is holiday-heavy in Panama. Great if you live and work here, but potentially disruptive if you are not prepared. Keep these dates handy if you plan to visit.
Monday, November 2: All Souls Day (Day of the Dead). No loud music, no alcohol sales. Banks open.
Tuesday, November 3: Celebration of the Separation of Panama from Colombia.
Wednesday, November 4: Flag Day (Dia de la Bandera).
Thursday, November 5: Colon Day (the city, not the organ).
Tuesday, November 10: Celebration of the Uprising in Los Santos. Los Santos declared independence from Spain first, prompting Panama City to act and declare formal separation on….
November 28, Saturday: Celebration of Panama’s Independence from Spain.
On November 3, 4, 5, 10 and 28: Banks and public and private offices closed. Grocery stores open. Roads may be blocked for parades–keep this in mind when making your travel plans.