🎡 Bugaba’s 100th Anniversary 🎭 Can you hear the drums?

Panama Life Hub Insider

Tuesday, January 27, 2026

A Note from the Editor

We are hitting the high point of the Panamanian summer.

While the capital prepares to host the "Latin American Davos"—bringing together the region's most influential economic minds—the heart of the country is preparing for the year's most intense cultural tradition in Las Tablas. Whether you are navigating high-level business forums or planning a trip to the centenary celebrations in Chiriquí, this week’s digest focuses on the events that define Panama’s unique blend of progress and tradition.

Carlos Chen Editor, Panama Life Hub Insider

🗞️ Weekly Summary: News & Insights

1. Events: The Grand Finale of the La Chorrera Fair (Ends Feb 1st)

• The News: The 65th Feria Internacional de La Chorrera is entering its final stretch. This is the biggest event in Panama West, showcasing the heart of the region's folklore and productivity.
• Expat Insight: If you’re planning to go, don’t bother with a morning trip. The real magic of this fair is its nightlife. After 6:00 PM, the atmosphere shifts—the cultural performances are at their peak, the specialized restaurants are buzzing, and the "chicheme" just tastes better under the lights. It’s when you’ll see the true essence of the fair, even if it means navigating a few more crowds.
• Link to Source: Thevisitorpanama.info/​

2. Tradition: Bugaba’s Centenary – Feria de la Candelaria (Jan 29 – Feb 8)

• The News: This Thursday, January 29th, Chiriquí kicks off a historic edition of the Feria de la Candelaria in Bugaba. Celebrating 100 years, this fair is the legendary "dairy heart" of Panama.
• Expat Insight: This is arguably the most "authentic" agricultural fair in the country. Forget the touristy vibes; Bugaba is about serious livestock and deep-rooted traditions. If you are in Chiriquí, the February 2nd horse parade (Cabalgata) is non-negotiable. It’s the perfect spot to pick up artisan leather goods and the best highland cheese you’ll find all year.
• Link to Source: Instagram.com/p/DT0NvT6kZ5-/​

3. Business: International Economic Forum LAC 2026 (Jan 28–29)

• The News: Organized by CAF (Development Bank of Latin America) and the Government of Panama, this high-level forum convenes business leaders, influential influencers, and decision-makers at the Panama Convention Center.
• Why It Matters: Often called the "Latin American Davos," this event focuses on the most urgent regional challenges. It’s a strategic space designed to build solutions that drive growth, inclusion, and competitiveness. For the business-minded expat or investor, the discussions here—ranging from AI and energy transition to infrastructure—will dictate the economic narrative and investment flows in Panama for the remainder of 2026.
• Link to Source: Caf.com/es/​

🎯 Spotlight Analysis – Deep Dive

The "Izada de Bandera" in Las Tablas: The Carnival Engine Starts

While the official Carnival dates aren't until February 14th, the psychological and cultural "point of no return" happens this Saturday, January 31st, in the town of Las Tablas.

If you are new to Panama, you might hear people talking about the "Estreno de Tonadas." Here is what is actually happening in the heart of Los Santos:

1. The Ground Zero of Tradition This Saturday, both Calle Arriba and Calle Abajo will host their official Izada de Bandera and the premiere of their 2026 Tonadas (satirical songs). While other towns have flag-raisings, the events at Parque Porras in Las Tablas are the national gold standard. This is where the rivalry is most intense, and the costumes are most elaborate.

2. Cultural Intelligence The Izada is when the Queens raise their street's flag, signaling the start of their "reign." The Tonadas are the songs the crowd will sing to mock the opposing street during Carnival. If you attend, you will see the "Murgas" (brass bands) performing live for the first time this year.

3. Practical Impact

• Traffic: Expect heavy southbound traffic on the Inter-American Highway this Friday and Saturday as thousands of Tableños head home for these events.
• Noise: If you are staying in Las Tablas or nearby towns like Guararé, the celebrations will continue until the early morning hours.
• Bookings: Once the flags are up this Saturday, finding any rental accommodation in the Azuero Peninsula for the actual Carnival dates will become nearly impossible.

👋 Your Next Step in Panama

Keep an eye on the outcomes of the Economic Forum this Wednesday; the investment commitments made there often signal which Panamanian industries will see the most growth this year!

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