New Rules for the Thousand Polleras Parade in Panama

In section C (Rules and Prohibitions), the regulations regarding attire are listed. The 100 delegations registered to participate in the Thousand Polleras Parade in Las Tablas on January 17th are committed to correctly wearing the folk attire of each country's region. To this end, several months ago, the Tourism Authority (ATP) made public the regulation (Resolution 097-2025) and the manual, an instruction guide on how to wear the typical attire for both ladies and gentlemen. Each delegation must have signed a sworn statement, committing to comply with the rules. Failure to do so will be evaluated, and this could affect future parade participations, including their eligibility for the following year, commented Ana Victoria Pinzón, Marketing Director of the ATP. For example, delegations are prohibited from using polleras made of painted, printed fabrics, or any other material traditionally used for their creation; shirts that distort the folk identity (printed fabric or monochromatic shirts); pants with a pollera blouse or stylized dresses that do not comply with the pollera classification guide (with the exception of musicians and singers); pants and shirts that do not meet the specifications of typical attire; hats that are not Panamanian; caps and polleras that are not Panamanian (excluding delegations from other countries invited by the Organizing Committee). Furthermore, ladies must wear the pollera with dignity; therefore, allegories or fantasies are not allowed in the parade, as the idea is to highlight the authenticity of the costume, craftsmanship, patterns, and accessories according to the region. She pointed out that 'item C in the regulation includes a mandatory sworn statement whereby each delegation declares its commitment to the proper, respectful, and traditional use of Panamanian typical attire. This tool seeks to ensure that all participants have clear information aligned with our traditions.' 'The main focus is preventive and educational, prioritizing guidance and cultural respect,' the official said via email to Panamá América.