The culture, customs, and language of the Panamanians are predominantly Caribbean Spanish. Ethnically, the majority of the population is mestizo or mixed Spanish, Indian, Chinese, and West Indian. Spanish is the official and dominant language; English is a common second language spoken by the West Indians and by many in business and the professions. More than half the population lives in the Panama City/Col�n metropolitan corridor.

The local folklore can be experienced through a multitude of festivals, dances and traditions that reflect the influence of the different ethnic groups that make up the country. To the north, in Col�n Province, the traditions of African influence are observed such as Congo drums dating back to the era of slavery and the Black Christ feast. In the south, the May Pole ceremony is found in Bocas del Toro, which is a European tradition. Throughout the country year-round festivals take place in each town in honor of the Patron Saint of each town. The Panamanian carnival, held before Ash Wednesday and the beginning of Lent, is a colorful celebration of the mix of different customs of all the ethnic groups.