Panama City Sets New Hours for Alcohol Sales

Panama City has changed the hours governing alcohol sales at bars, restaurants and nightclubs. The Mayor’s Office formalized the rules through Municipal Decree No. 5, issued on Aug. 4, 2026.

Authorized businesses may operate from 9 a.m. until 3 a.m. from Sunday through Wednesday. From Thursday through Saturday, the closing time moves to 4 a.m.

Any establishment that wants to remain open after 11:59 p.m. must hold a valid night permit. Without one, it must close at midnight. The city said the measure aims to balance commercial activity with residents’ need for rest.

The decree provides separate treatment for the Casco Antiguo, the Calzada de Amador and shopping centers covering at least 100,000 square meters. The municipality did not specify the exact hours for those areas. Businesses must still maintain their operating permits and comply with national and municipal noise rules. The city said it will actively enforce the provisions, which take effect seven calendar days after promulgation.