We congratulate Panama on its 119th National Day 2022.

Today’s we celebrates Panama’s Independence Day, which marks the historic end of Colombian rule. Panama separated from Colombia on this day in 1903 after negotiating the construction of the Panama Canal.

November 3 is one of two independence holidays in Panama this month. The second Independence Day, celebrated on November 28, commemorates the country’s freedom from Spanish rule.

Collectively, these holidays are known as Fiestas Patrias. To celebrate this special holiday, people decorate schools, cars and shops with Panamanian flags like the one seen in today’s Doodle. Additionally, school children practice the xylophone and snare drums in preparation for Independence Day parades. The school bands eventually march alongside police officers and soldiers in parades across celebrating communities. 

Panamanian pride is also displayed through performances of El Tamborito, the country’s national dance. Women twirl their ornate, embroidered skirts as men grip their hats while dancing behind their dance partners.

On the occasion of the 119th National day the Ambassador of the Republic of Panama H.E.Andrés Gregorio Núñes Sánchez invited us to celebrate the day. Happy Independence Day, Panama! See our pictures of the event at the Historical museum of Stockholm: