Celebrating Fiestas Patrias at the MET: A month of cultural connection

November is a significant month in Panama, marked by the Fiestas Patrias, a series of national holidays that honor the country's rich history and cultural heritage. These celebrations include:

• November 3: Separation Day, commemorating Panama's independence from Colombia in 1903.
• November 4: Flag Day, celebrating the national flag as a symbol of unity.
• November 5: Colón Day, recognizing the role of the city of Colón in the independence movement.
• November 10: The First Cry for Independence in La Villa de Los Santos in 1821.
• November 28: Independence Day from Spain in 1821.

At the Metropolitan School of Panama, we embrace this period as an opportunity to honor our host country's traditions and instill a sense of national pride within our diverse community.

Initiating the Celebrations: The Flag Planting Ceremony
Our festivities commence with the traditional Flag Planting Ceremony, held at the end of October. This year, on October 28, 2024, the MET community—comprising students, faculty, staff, and parents—gathered to mark the beginning of the patriotic month. Dressed in traditional attire and national colors, participants paid homage to Panama in an event filled with symbolism and unity.

The ceremony featured special presentations that revisited historical moments and cultural aspects of Panama, helping students of all ages gain a deeper understanding of the country's traditions. A highlight was the musical performance by the delegation from Instituto Rubiano, which enriched the event and was enjoyed by all attendees.

Engaging Students Through Cultural Activities
Throughout November, our Spanish classes in both Primary and Secondary sections are transformed into explorations of Panamanian culture. Students engage in activities such as researching national heroes, creating art inspired by traditional crafts, and learning about the historical events that shaped the nation. These initiatives foster a deeper appreciation for Panama's customs, values, and identity.

Panamanian Cultural Week
One of the most anticipated events of this period is our Panamanian Cultural Week, a beloved tradition where students, teachers, and families come together to explore and celebrate the country's cultural wealth. This week-long event includes performances, workshops, and exhibitions that immerse our community in Panama's rich heritage. We look forward to sharing more about our recent Panamanian Cultural Week in upcoming blogs.

Why it matters to us
As an international school, fostering cultural awareness and respect is central to our mission. Celebrating Fiestas Patrias provides our diverse community with the opportunity to connect with Panama's rich heritage, reinforcing our shared values of respect, inclusion, and global citizenship.

Learn more
If you’d like to learn more about how we teach our students and the ways in which they learn, click here and also watch our most recent video here.

¡Viva Panamá!