Panama Life Hub Insider
Your Weekly Digest for Expat Life in Panama
Tuesday, December 30, 2025
A Note from the Editor
Welcome to our final 2025 edition.
This week is marked by deep cultural sensitivity following the demolition of a historical monument in Arraiján, an act that has resonated far beyond the district. We also look forward to the Panama Jazz Festival, the first major cultural highlight of 2026. Finally, we dive into the fascinating and satirical tradition of the "Muñecos de Año Nuevo" that you will see lining the highways this week.
Thank you for your feedback and for helping us keep this newsletter accurate and relevant.
Carlos Chen Editor, Panama Life Hub Insider
🗞️ Weekly Summary: News & Insights
1. Cultural Outrage: Demolition of the Chinese Monument in Arraiján
- News Summary: Mayor Stefany Peñalba of Arraiján has come under heavy fire after ordering the demolition of the monument honoring the Chinese community, located at the end of the Bridge of the Americas. The structure, built in 2007, commemorated the 150th anniversary of the arrival of the first Chinese immigrants who helped make the Panama Railroad. The demolition was carried out without consulting the Chinese-Panamanian Association, which called the act an "affront to the history and contribution" of their community.
- The Context: This event has sparked a national debate about how local authorities manage cultural heritage. For the expat community, it serves as a reminder of Panama's complex social fabric and the high value placed on the historical contributions of immigrant groups to the nation's development.
- Link to Source: Prensa.com/
2. Looking Ahead: Panama Jazz Festival 2026 Lineup Announced
- News Summary: Organizers have officially released the schedule and lineup for the 23rd Panama Jazz Festival, set to take place in mid-January 2026. Centered in Ciudad del Saber (Clayton), this year’s festival will feature international legends and local stars, offering clinics, jam sessions, and the massive free closing concert at the Quadrangle.
- Why it Matters: This is arguably the most important cultural event for the expat community in the first quarter of the year. It transforms Clayton into a global musical hub. Tickets for the main performances at the Ateneo or Anayansi Theater sell out quickly, so this is the week to secure your spots for the January events.
- Link to Source: Panamajazzfestival.com/
3. "Verano" Cruise Season Hits Peak at Amador Port
- News Summary: With the dry season officially here, the Amador Cruise Port is seeing its highest traffic of the season. This week, multiple "turnaround" operations are scheduled, bringing thousands of international travelers to the city. While this boosts the local economy, it also causes temporary congestion at the Amador Causeway and surrounding areas like Casco Antiguo.
- What This Means for You: If you live in Amador or plan to visit the Causeway this week, expect localized traffic during embarkation/disembarkation hours. However, it’s a great time to enjoy the increased activity and new restaurant pop-ups that cater to the international maritime crowd.
- Link to Source: Pancanal.com/
🎯 Spotlight Analysis – Deep Dive
Burning the Past: The Tradition of "Muñecos de Año Nuevo"
If you are driving toward the interior this week (especially through Chame, Bejuco, and San Carlos), you will see rows of life-sized effigies sitting along the Pan-American Highway. These are the Muñecos de Año Nuevo (New Year’s Dolls), one of Panama's most authentic and satirical traditions.
What they represent: These dolls, stuffed with dry leaves and fireworks, represent the "Old Year." Traditionally, they are crafted to look like famous characters, celebrities, or—most commonly—controversial politicians. By burning them at the stroke of midnight on December 31st, Panamanians symbolically destroy the "bad vibes" and mistakes of the past year to start fresh.
Why it’s unique:
- Satire: It is a form of public protest. You will likely see effigies of local mayors or ministers this year, reflecting the public's opinion of their performance.
- The Craft: Many families have made these for generations. They compete for the most realistic or creative doll, and some even set up "displays" where you can pull over and take photos (a small tip for the creators is customary).
- The Midnight "Quema": At midnight, the highway and neighborhood streets light up. It is a loud, smoky, and festive spectacle that marks the definitive end of the year.
👋 Your Next Step in Panama
Thank you for your trust and for demanding the best from us throughout 2025. We look forward to starting 2026 with the accuracy and depth you deserve.
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