The Carnival celebrations in Las Tablas, the provincial capital, are widely regarded as the most authentic and energetic in Panama — more raucous than Panama City, and drawing Panamanians from across the country rather than foreign tourists. The four days before Ash Wednesday are when the town effectively shuts down for anything other than celebration.
The tradition of the pollera dress — the national costume, an elaborately embroidered Spanish colonial-era gown — is central to the festivities. Las Tablas is considered the spiritual home of the pollera, and the Carnival queens who represent each side of town wear the finest examples. If you are anywhere near the Azuero Peninsula in February, this is worth rearranging a schedule for.