Celebrate LGBTQ Life in Historic Casco Viejo

Glittering costumes, rainbow flags rippling in the coastal breeze, and that addictive Latin beat… Panama City, Panama explodes with Pride every June.

This may well be one of Latin America’s most overlooked destinations when it comes to Pride—for the biggest parades, look to the likes of São Paolo, in Brazil. But if you can get to the colonial quarter of Casco Viejo for the annual events in la ciudad de Panamá, do. You’ll marvel at the beauty of the art and architecture while enjoying the company of friendly, fun-loving people.

Though there’d been smaller events previously, Panama City’s first major organized pride parade was in 2011. Over the years themes like “Diversity is Strength” have been driven home with music, laughter, and fierce—well, pride.

There’s fun for the LGBTQ+ community, families, friends, allies—come one, come all—with parades, block parties, art displays, dances, and more.

This year’s theme is El Orgullo eres tu (Pride is You). A big parade and festival will take place starting at 3 p.m. on June 28. Expect everything from drag showcases and fashion shows to DJs and dancing.

And of course the food offerings in this culinary capital are always fantastic—there’ll even be craft beer and themed cocktails. Entry fee: Just $5.

The pride flag will fly from June 1 in Plaza de la Catedral, site of the old city’s iconic Metropolitan Cathedral (Did you know? International Living once had local offices in a beautifully restored colonial building across from the church.) Traditionally many of the buildings are rainbow-draped, so stop by anytime this month for some fabulously colorful photos.

Real Panamanian flavor: From June 2-6, evening film festivals and art exhibits will spill over into neighboring Santa Ana, a beautifying yet still rough-around-the-edges barrio. Celebrate in true Panamanian style… and don’t forget to try a rainbow raspao—Panamanian snow cone—topped with condensed and malted milk.

(It sounds weird, but as is often true, weird is good!)

Vocab tip: The Spanish word for rainbow is arcoíris.

—Tony Boatright & IL’s Panama Editor Jess Ramesch

The Panama Pride website is your best source of info for Pride Month in Panama. (You can also watch their Instagram and Facebook pages for updates.)