Processions, decorated altars, singing, and the sound of the mejorana—a traditional Panamanian string instrument—keep that religious connection alive. Other customs include building the temporary bullring for traditional bull events and playfully covering the festival queen and her court in mud.

Music and traditional skills are at the heart of the gathering. Children, teenagers, and adults compete in accordion playing, drumming, and mejorana singing. Demonstrations offer a glimpse into local crafts, including making mejoranas and cutarras, Panama’s traditional leather sandals. The festival also honors people who study and preserve these traditions, with research competitions named after Manuel F. Zárate and Dora Pérez de Zárate.

The festival queen’s celebrations, lively tuna processions filled with music and singing, visiting folk groups, and a parade of traditional carts round out the experience. For travelers, it’s a chance to get to know Guararé through its people and the traditions they continue to share across generations.