What Happened
Practices to prepare the heavy andas (religious floats) for Semana Santa processions have begun in Panama City’s Casco Antiguo. Organizers and volunteers are rehearsing the coordinated lifts and movements that will be used during Holy Week processions.
TVN announced it will provide special live coverage from Casco Antiguo, starting with the procession of Viernes de Dolores on March 27.
Background
Semana Santa processions in Panama are a longstanding tradition in which communities come together to commemorate Holy Week. In Casco Antiguo, narrow colonial streets and historic plazas form the route for many of these events, and successful processions rely on careful preparation by those who carry the andas.
Practices typically focus on coordinating lifts, timing, and movement through the urban landscape so that the heavy floats can be moved safely and respectfully during the ceremonies.
What This Means
The start of rehearsals signals the community ramping up for Holy Week, with volunteers and church groups refining the choreography and safety routines needed for processions. Preparedness helps reduce the risk of accidents and ensures the solemnity of the rites is maintained amid large crowds and confined streets.
TVN’s planned special live coverage from Casco Antiguo — beginning with the Viernes de Dolores procession on March 27 — will allow wider audiences to follow the events as they unfold in real time, offering viewers on-air access to traditional ceremonies taking place in the historic district.
Looking Ahead
As practices continue, residents and visitors can expect heightened activity in Casco Antiguo through Holy Week. Those planning to attend processions should watch for official broadcast schedules and local guidance about street access and public-safety measures during events.