26 Dec Muñecos
By Natalie Warner
December in Panama is a great time of year. The tropics provide a perfect escape from the cold winters up north. If this is your first time visiting, you may start noticing effigies, or human like figurines being displayed alongside the Pan-American Highway as you approach Bejuco and Chame.
These dolls have various names, including muñecos de año viejo (old year dolls), muñecos judas (judas dolls), or simply muñecos (dolls). The dolls are a popular way to ring in the new year in the area. Muñecos are typically made with a wood or metal frame, old clothes and stuffed with leaves and firecrackers. They are then thrown into a bonfire on the strike of midnight on New Years.
A yearly competition for the best muñeco occurs in San Carlos, which is approximately 10 minutes west of Coronado. Muñecos typically symbolize things that people do not want to carry with them into the next following year. However, they can symbolize positive things as well.
Political creations are by far the most popular. Panamanian President Juan Varela, and former Panamanian President Ricardo Martinelli can be seen along the highway. Gabriel Torres, who scored the winning goal for Panama’s futbol (soccer) team, allowing them to qualify for the World Cup, can also be found at multiple spots along the highway.
A muñeco of RomanTorres along with the newest t-shirt design from That’s Why Panama
Muñecos are a tradition pretty specific to the interior of Panama, specifically between Bejuco and San Carlos. Look for them along side the highways, especially as New Years Eve approaches. See one you like? Inquire about purchasing the muñeco. The cost is said to vary between $50-$500, depending on the figurine and the detail put into them. If you are feeling particularly adventurous, you can try making your own!
What are some of your favorite Christmas/New Years traditions? Happy holidays and happy New Year, from all of us from Coronado Concierge Panama.