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 that closes the historic district's main streets to vehicles so people can walk, shop, eat and enjoy cultural activities.
What started as a pilot in 2025 has become one of the city's favorite weekend plans, and a good way for expats to get to know Panama's culture up close.
Casco Peatonal takes place on the last Sunday of each month. If that schedule holds, the next one would be on Sunday, October 25, 2026. Confirm on the Mayor's Office official channels before you go.
On those 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.
In November 2025, the Mayor's Office published Decree 13-2025 to regulate the event. During Casco Peatonal, the following are not allowed:
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.
According to the Mayor's Office, the 2025 editions drew more than 700,000 visitors and injected an estimated B/.14 million into the local economy, helping restaurants, shops and cultural spaces in the area.
The conversation about Casco keeps going. Some residents and columnists are proposing ideas like peripheral parking and electric shuttles, and MiCultura is restoring spaces such as Plaza de Francia. The neighborhood is changing, and pedestrian days are part of that.
...living in Casco Antiguo: Plan ahead on the last Sunday of the month. Car access is limited, so move your car before closures or plan to walk. In exchange, you get a livelier, safer and more walkable neighborhood.
...thinking about renting or buying in Casco: Initiatives like this make the area more attractive for living and for short-term rentals, but also mean more crowds and noise on event days. Visit on a Casco Peatonal Sunday and on a regular weekday before deciding.
...looking for weekend plans: It's one of the best ways to enjoy Panamanian music, food and art, and to meet other people in the city. Arrive early, wear comfortable shoes and bring water.
This article is based on public information and our community's experience. Dates and rules can change, so check the Mayor's Office of Panama's official channels before you go.
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.