New Year's Day

New Year's Day in Panama, celebrated on January 1st, marks the beginning of the new year with vibrant festivities, cultural traditions, and family gatherings. As a predominantly Catholic country, many Panamanians attend midnight Mass on New Year's Eve, known as *Misa de Gallo*, to give thanks and pray for blessings in the coming year. The celebrations are filled with lively music, fireworks, and dancing, as people gather with loved ones to welcome the new year. A unique tradition in Panama is the burning of *muñecos* (effigies or dolls), often representing famous figures or symbols of the past year, to symbolize letting go of negativity and starting fresh. Families also enjoy traditional foods like *arroz con pollo* (chicken with rice), *tamales*, and *hojaldras* (fried dough). New Year's Day itself is a public holiday, allowing people to relax, reflect, and spend time with family. Many Panamanians also take this opportunity to set goals and resolutions for the year ahead. The holiday is a time of joy, renewal, and hope for prosperity and happiness in the coming year.