National Manito Festival Kicks Off in Ocú, Expecting Thousands of Visitors

Ocú, in Panama's Herrera province, is gearing up for the 53rd National Manito Festival, a vibrant celebration of local folklore and traditions. The event officially opens tonight with the crowning of Ana Lucía, who will preside over festivities scheduled to continue through Sunday.

The festival program includes a variety of activities designed to preserve the cultural heritage of the Ocú region. Highlights feature children's and youth contests, tributes to notable Ocú residents, and the traditional "matrimonio campesino" (country wedding) on Saturday. A special "Dagoberto “Yin” Carrizo Medrano" contest is also set for Saturday evening.

Organizers emphasize the festival's authentic character and its role in keeping Ocú's traditions alive. The event is a collaborative effort by the National Manito Festival Committee, local educational institutions, and the community. Beyond its cultural significance, the festival offers a vital economic opportunity for regional artisans, who anticipate benefiting from the influx of visitors.

Projections indicate that Ocú could welcome over 100,000 people during the festival. The celebration will conclude on Sunday, August 16, with a traditional parade and dancing, marking the end of several days dedicated to Ocú's rich folklore, culture, and traditions.