November 28 marks the Independence of Panama from Spain, commemorating the day in 1821 when the isthmus declared its separation from the Spanish Crown and voluntarily joined Gran Colombia. It is a national holiday observed throughout the country and brings Panama's festive patriotic month to a close.
The date is celebrated with civic acts, flag ceremonies and parades of school marching bands, drum corps and folkloric groups in towns and cities nationwide. Streets fill with the red, white and blue of the national flag as communities honor the historical event that ended three centuries of Spanish colonial rule and shaped the country's path to nationhood.
Coming at the end of a month rich with independence commemorations, November 28 reinforces the deep sense of national pride that defines the Panamanian calendar. It offers visitors another chance to witness the vibrant civic celebrations and patriotic traditions of the country.
