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Polaroid of the Week: Whipping Devils Thrill Crowds at Bocas del Toro's Carnaval

Polaroid of the Week: Whipping Devils Thrill Crowds at Bocas del Toro s Carnaval

Panamanians celebrate with unmatched energy! Carnaval is Panama's premier annual festival. While less renowned than Rio de Janeiro's or New Orleans' Mardi Gras, it stands among the world's largest carnivals. For seven days, streets nationwide burst with colorful parades and extravagant costumes.

We immersed ourselves in Bocas del Toro's carnival weekend, witnessing the gripping 'whipping devils' tradition. Costumed devils race through the crowds, playfully whipping at onlookers' legs—a symbolic reenactment of Spanish conquerors and the evils of slavery.

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