Panama Independence Day: November 28
Panama observes Independence Day on November 28, marking its 1821 declaration of independence from Spain. It is one of several November national holidays that together remember the country’s independence movement and later separation from Colombia.[1][2]
What the day commemorates
The independence process unfolded between November 10 and November 28, 1821. On November 28, Panama declared independence from Spain; the same day, it chose to join Gran Colombia. The milestone is distinct from Panama’s separation from Colombia in 1903, which is commemorated on November 3.[2][3]
Panama’s Ministry of Government describes November as a month of patriotic celebrations honoring the struggle for independence from Spain, the separation from Colombia, the independence cry, and the country’s national symbols. November 28 is therefore part of a wider season of national commemorations, while specifically marking independence from Spain.[1][2]
A national day of rest
Article 46 of Panama’s Labour Code lists November 28 as a national holiday and a day of compulsory rest. MITRADEL says this applies to public entities nationwide and to private-sector businesses and activities. Workers in the private sector who work on a national holiday are entitled to the statutory holiday pay treatment and compensatory rest described by the ministry.[4][5]
When a national holiday falls on a Sunday, the following Monday becomes the compulsory weekly rest day under Article 47, as explained by MITRADEL. The Monday is a rest day under this rule; the ministry has also explained that earlier automatic “bridge day” transfers were removed from Article 46. Check official notices for any separate measure affecting a particular year.[4][5]
How people mark the November festivities
Panama’s Ministry of Government describes patriotic parades and early-morning “dianas,” musical calls performed by bands from state institutions. It also notes that parade and diana music has developed to include folkloric and popular tunes, while independent bands perform in streets, neighborhoods, localities, and parades around the country.[1]
These accounts describe November’s patriotic festivities broadly rather than a fixed programme for November 28. Specific events and routes can vary, so travelers should check local announcements before making plans. Check local announcements for food customs associated with the holiday.[1]
Planning around the holiday
Check opening hours with government offices and banks before you go. Check opening hours and transport schedules with each institution or operator before travelling or arranging errands.[4]
Parades and public celebrations are part of Panama’s November observances. Visitors should verify local transport and road information close to their visit.[1]
Frequently asked questions
When is Panama Independence Day?
Is November 28 a public day off?
Yes. Panama’s Labour Code lists the date as a national holiday and compulsory rest day for public entities and private-sector businesses and activities.[4]
What happens if November 28 falls on a Sunday?
The following Monday becomes the compulsory weekly rest day under Article 47 of the Labour Code, according to MITRADEL.[5]
Will banks, shops, or transport services be open?
Schedules can vary. Check opening hours or transport schedules directly with the bank, shop or transport operator.[4]
Sources and references
Sources used for Independence Day in Panama:
- Fiestas patrias, significado y evolución- Ministerio de Gobierno de Panamá
- 200 años de Independencia de Panamá de España- Dirección de Cultura y Educación Ciudadana, Municipio de Panamá
- España y Panamá- Embajada de Panamá en España
- COMUNICADO- Ministerio de Trabajo y Desarrollo Laboral
- MITRADEL informa sobre la remuneración por laborar en fiestas patrias- Ministerio de Trabajo y Desarrollo Laboral