Panama Viejo Celebrates 507 Years with Music, Folklore, and a Recycled Mural

Panama Viejo transformed into a vibrant celebration on Saturday, marking 507 years since the city's founding. A traditional parade filled the streets with music, folklore, and the pride of a community deeply connected to its history. The festivities kicked off at 9 a.m. near the Morelos statue, winding through the Cincuentenario avenue to the Puente del Rey sector. More than 45 student delegations, 11 independent bands, and an international band showcased their talents. Attendees praised the colorful and spirited performances, with one spectator noting the "dedication of the boys, emotion above all." Beyond the parade, students displayed their physical prowess through a gymnastics routine. The event also offered a chance for residents, particularly those who grew up in Panama Viejo, to honor their roots. "Proudly, from the heart, I feel proud to be from the neighborhood of Panama La Vieja," shared one resident. "A very humble neighborhood, but one that moves forward. We have professionals who have come out of the neighborhood." A unique attraction was a mural crafted from over 80,000 plastic caps, recently inaugurated and combining historical elements of Panama Viejo with a message about environmental protection. "Everything recycled is so beautiful. We have to take care of our environment because Panama's gold is green," remarked a visitor, highlighting the community's dual focus on heritage and sustainability.

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Very good. Well pronounced, well dedicated, a lot of folklore, dedication of the boys, emotion above all.