Believe me it is commercialized. We made the mistake of going to David (2nd largest city in Panama - 1 hour from us) on Wednesday to do some shopping. Everyone was out buying mom a gift. The stores were packed. And there were wrapping paper stands set up all over the sidewalks. The paper wasn't Christmasy. It was all flowers and hearts! Pretty crazy, but they take mom seriously here since everyone has one. ;) Ha. But you definitely still do need to come. :)