On Sunday night, Calle 50 became a true river of light, music, and hope with the City of Stars Christmas Parade, a celebration that brought together entire families, children, adults, and grandparents, all with the same illusion: to celebrate Christmas as a community. The parade was led by the mayor of the capital, Mayer Mizrachi, who not only kicked off the procession but also walked, greeted, and shared with the public gathered along the route, demonstrating closeness and a Christmas spirit. In this 2025 edition, the parade featured 30 floats and 92 cultural delegations and musical bands, filling the 3.5-kilometer route with color and joy. The event lasted for more than five hours, without losing the public's enthusiasm or energy. Not even the rain could dampen the celebration. Under umbrellas, coats, and smiles, hundreds of people stood firm, enjoying each float, each troupe, and each musical note. One of the most emotional moments was the participation of the Christian community, which presented an imposing float of about three meters in height, positioning it as one of the largest in the parade. The design included a manger depicting the birth of Jesus, Joseph, and the Baby God, carrying a clear message of faith, unity, and hope—the heart of Christmas. This float was made possible by the joint effort of the Aviva Vive Feliz, Comunidad Apostólica Hosanna, Avanzada Juvenil, Manantial, Centro de Adoración Cristiana Unidos de Chiriquí, and Iglesia Cuadrangular churches. To guarantee order and security, a robust logistics plan was deployed with the participation of 5,000 agents from the security forces, while the Metro de Panamá operated until midnight, facilitating the safe return of attendees. Joy, light, and an economic impact felt throughout the city. Beyond the sparkle, music, and emotion experienced on the streets, the 2025 City of Stars Christmas Parade not only filled hearts but also moved millions and activated the work of thousands of Panamanians. The massive attendance of families from different parts of the country translated into an economic impact of over 10 million dollars, boosting key sectors such as hotels, restaurants, transportation, informal commerce, and services, where small and medium-sized entrepreneurs saw a real opportunity to bring food to their tables. The organization of the event represented a strategic investment by the Municipality of Panama, which bet on a vibrant Christmas on the streets, with cultural, artistic, and decorative activities extending throughout the month of December, generating constant movement in the city. This was joined by the strong participation of the private sector, which activated the national productive chain: designers, artists, technicians, transporters, and logistics personnel, bringing direct income to thousands of Panamanian families. The event also generated a significant indirect economic spill, thanks to the consumption of food, water, souvenirs, toys, and other supplies, without neglecting the work of the security forces that ensured an orderly and family-friendly environment. The City of Stars Parade was not just an event; it was a demonstration that Panama knows how to celebrate in peace, as a family, and with hearts full of Christmas.
