CABALGATA

The Cabalgata is an added attraction to David's International Fair and is a giant horse parade in honor of San Jose (the namesake of the Fair).  It is the largest horse parade in all of Panama, and over 5,000 men, women, and children throughout the Chiriqui province come to participate.  All are decked out in their finest western attire to ride their beautiful horses through downtown David.  I feel fortunate to have experienced this one-of-a-kind community event, where both riders and spectators alike show tremendous pride in their Panamanian culture and community.  

Over 5,000 riders participated in David's Cabalgata.

Loved watching these two brothers proudly ride their horse at the Cabalgata as the crowds cheered them on.

Many parents showed their Panamanian pride and love of family by riding with their children.  Loved this cute father-son duo! 

It is a Cabalgata tradition in David for beer and rum to be served during the ride.  These three caballeros rode with cerveza in hand!