We were a bit disappointed by Christmas.

Panama does not decorate like the USA and we did miss that .

There was some decorations and a few small nativity parades from the churches. 

But Christmas seems to be a large family time in Panama. We did visit an outdoor festivity in a small town that was fun.

Now New Years is a different story.

As you walk along you see these stuffed people everywhere. They are cute!

Someone finally told us that an article of clothing from each person in the house is put on this form then its stuffed with fireworks.

One New Years they are lit burned and explode.

Make sure you are standing along ways away!!

We were on a motel balcony and still had sparks we were side stepping.

A lot of fun

Several of the motel guest shared some of their traditions for a healthy wealthy New Year with

us as well.

Everyone trades dollar bills and you do not spend that dollar till you exchange with another person next year------you will not be broke for the whole year.

Everyone has 12 grapes at midnight you eat the grapes one for each month of the coming year, you will not go hungry for that year. 

Wonderful traditions