Cultural Experiences in Panama

Plan a getaway to Panama to experience the country’s rich cultural offerings. On your next visit, participate in these unique cultural activities.

Mask-Making Workshop

Meet with one of Panama’s top artisans at the Dario Lopez Workshop in the Parita District. Lopez has crafted masks for folkloric dancers for five decades; his masks used in various festivals in Panama and around the world. In the workshop, participants take part in a hands-on mask-making experience, learning the techniques and materials used to make these unique masks.

© PROMTUR Panama

Dress in a Traditional Pollera

The pollera, Panama’s national dress, consists of a skirt and blouse with layered ruffles running from the bodice through the full length of the skirt. A single pollera can take up to a year to create. Donning the dress is considered a ceremony in itself. Visit Panama City’s Casco Viejo neighborhood and stop in a local shop to learn more about the history of the national dress.

Get Fitted for Cutarra Sandals

Cutarra sandals are woven sandals, with origins dating back centuries. Still being handmade today, travelers can visit the Los Santos region to experience the sandal-making process in person. Santeño artisans utilize the traditional process, measuring the foot and weaving the strips of material directly onto the customers’ feet while standing.

© PROMTUR Panama

Hat-Weaving Workshop

Learn more about the importance of the pintao hat to Panama’s culture. The detailed process of creating the hat was recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2017. Techniques have been passed down through generations. The Pintao Hat Museum in the La Pintadad District recreates the intricate process for visitors.