Independence Day, Flag Day

On November 3, 1903, Panama declared independence from Columbia.  They had actually declared independence once before from Spain in 1821, but it was more of a separation than independence given Columbia's occupation in Panama. (Some could say that Panama wasn't really off to the races until the US handed over the canal and all military bases in 1999, but that's outside the scope of this blog).

In Calante, Independence Day celebrations were surprisingly similar to back home.  A big meal was prepared for everyone.  Kids spent the morning doing sack races, relay races, and musical chairs.  At the end of the day, it was the adults' turn for fun.  Calante hosted a baile, or dance, at the Casa Comunal with music blaring until 4am.

Flag day was basically rinse and repeat.  The kids participated in more races.  Meanwhile, the adults had their own competitions including tug-of-war and climbing up a greased-down log stuck in the ground.  The prize at the top: a bottle of rum and a few bucks.