Visitors to Panama City’s Snowland Christmas market were treated to an unexpected seasonal twist this December: a fully fledged alpine‑style dry ski slope, right in the heart of the tropics. Installed by Skitrax World, the 30‑metre Slopetrax mat slope became the star attraction of a festive pop‑up that transformed a spacious warehouse into a pocket‑sized winter wonderland.

Panama is no stranger to heat in December, with daytime temperatures typically hovering between 28°C and 32°C and humidity adding an extra layer of tropical intensity. Snow, of course, is virtually unheard of, the country’s low‑lying geography and equatorial climate mean winter as most people know it simply doesn’t exist. Against that backdrop, the chance to clip into skis and glide down a slope felt almost surreal for many visitors.

Inside the warehouse, however, the scene told a different story. Festively decorated stalls served hot drinks, sweet treats and savoury snacks, while cool indoor temperatures, soft alpine lighting and a soundtrack of Christmas classics created a surprisingly authentic mountain ambience. Rising above it all was the Slopetrax slope itself, perched on a purpose‑built platform and drawing curious crowds throughout the event.

Families, first‑timers and seasoned travellers alike queued for a turn, many laughing at the sheer novelty of skiing in a country where the closest thing to winter is the rainy season. For some, it was their first time ever on skis; for others, it was a nostalgic taste of colder climates they once called home.

The installation showcased Skitrax World’s growing reputation for bringing winter sports to places where snow is either rare or non‑existent. By offering a realistic, snow‑free skiing experience, the company demonstrated how alpine fun can be recreated anywhere — regardless of climate, season or latitude.

For Panama City, the Snowland market delivered something genuinely memorable: a festive celebration that blended tropical warmth with a dash of winter magic, proving that even in 30‑degree heat, the spirit of the season can still shine.