Skip to content
English
  • There are no suggestions because the search field is empty.

Casco Peatonal: How Panama's Car-Free Sundays in Casco Antiguo Work

If you've walked through Casco Antiguo on a busy Sunday, you know its narrow streets weren't made for cars. That's the idea behind Casco Peatonal, an initiative of the Panama City Mayor's Office (Alcaldía) that closes the historic district's main streets to vehicles so people can walk, shop, eat and enjoy cultural activities.

It started as a pilot in 2025 and has become a regular weekend plan in the city, and a good way for expats to experience Panamanian culture up close.

How it works

Casco Peatonal is normally held on the last Sunday of each month. Following that pattern, the next edition is expected on Sunday, October 25, 2026, but the date has not yet been officially confirmed. Check the Alcaldía's official channels for the confirmed date and hours before you go.

On event days, streets such as Calle Central (from Calle 2 Este to Calle 9), Pedro J. Sosa, José de Obaldía, Calle 7 San José, Calle 6 Nicanor Villalaz, Calle 5 San Pablo, Calle 3, Calle 4 and Calle 8, among others, become pedestrian-only.

The rules to know

In November 2025, the Alcaldía published Decree 13-2025 to regulate the event. During Casco Peatonal, the following are not allowed:

  • Drinking or selling alcohol without authorization
  • Unauthorized street vending
  • Bringing coolers, glass containers or alcoholic drinks
  • Setting up tents, furniture or structures without a permit
  • Fireworks
  • Masks or anything that hides your identity after 6:00 p.m.
  • Sound equipment above permitted levels

Fines range from B/.50 to B/.300, and community service may also apply. The Municipal Police, National Police, the transit authority (ATTT) and the Fire Department support road closures and security.

The results so far

The Alcaldía estimated approximately 700,000 cumulative visits across ten editions in 2025 and around B/.14 million in economic activity, calculated using estimated average spending. These are cumulative visits, not necessarily 700,000 different people.

39

The conversation about Casco continues. Some residents and columnists have proposed ideas such as peripheral parking and electric shuttles, and the Ministry of Culture is restoring spaces such as Plaza de Francia.

What this means if you're...

...living in Casco Antiguo: Plan ahead for event Sundays. Car access is limited, so move your car before the closures or plan to walk.

...thinking about renting or buying in Casco: Visit both on an event Sunday and on a regular weekday to see how crowds and noise change. If you're considering renting out a property for short stays, keep in mind that rentals of fewer than 45 days can involve tourist-accommodation authorization, zoning, registration with the Tourism Authority (ATP) and the building's PH rules. Get professional advice before making plans.

...looking for weekend plans: It's a good way to enjoy Panamanian music, food and art, and to meet people in the city. Arrive early, wear comfortable shoes and bring water.

Note: This article is based on public information and our community's experience. Dates and rules can change, so check the Alcaldía de Panamá's official channels before you go.

Related Reside Panama Articles

Keep exploring Panama with us

At Reside Panama, we share what everyday life in Panama is really like, from neighborhoods to weekend plans. Explore our blog for more guides and reach out if you're thinking about where to live.