Corpus Christi

The Corpus Christi celebration in Panama is one of the country's most fascinating cultural expressions, where Spanish Catholicism intertwines with pre-Columbian beliefs and rituals in a unique way. Celebrated in June, mainly in Los Santos, Penonomé, and La Villa de Los Santos, this festivity is distinguished by the presence of the diablicos sucios — dancers representing the devil dressed in red-and-black striped costumes, wearing spectacular carved wooden masks that can depict animals, demons, or mythical figures. These masks are true works of art that take weeks to craft. The dance of the diablicos sucios symbolizes the struggle between good and evil, culminating in the victory of Archangel Michael over the diabolic forces. Streets fill with religious processions, drums, music, and the colorfulness of the costumes. It is a tradition recognized as intangible cultural heritage that attracts visitors from around the world.