Matanza

This Sunday, while everyone was watching the oh-so-Super Bowl, I was in a small village in the foothills about an hour outside of Panama city at a big party called a Matanza. This was my first glimpse into true Panamanian culture, as this is not something you read about or are even invited to unless you are a Panamanian. Im not exactly sure what was being celebrated, but from what I understand, Panamanians will find any reason to have a party. Basically, they slaughter a cow and spend all weekend eating it and partying. There were folk bands and dancing, swimming in the nearby river, fireworks, and lots and lots of drinking. Beers were only 0.50 and plates of food were $2. The entire day cost less than $10 each, including multiple plates and many beers. Although me and Andy were the only white people there, and getting lots of stares and looks, the friends we were with were sort of VIP so of course we were treated wonderfully and everyone was very hospitable. We sure did get some looks and hollers though.



Once it was dark enough and I was drunk enough, I was convinced into dancing. I showed them Panamanians a thing or two