Expat Meet-Ups in Boquete: Where and When to Connect with the Community

Boquete hosts regular expat gatherings throughout the week, with Tuesday Market at Tap Out (9 AM-12 PM) being the largest and most popular event, drawing hundreds of expats weekly. The social calendar includes Tuesday Trivia (5 PM), Friday hangouts at Stone Cabin (3-5 PM), and various special events, making it one of Panama's most connected expat communities.

One of the best things about Boquete is how easy it is to meet fellow expats. Whether you're new in town or returning after some time away, there are regular weekly gatherings where you can connect with the community, make friends, and get the latest local scoop. When I first moved here from Seattle, I was worried about feeling isolated in a small mountain town, but I quickly discovered that Boquete has one of the most active and welcoming expat social scenes I've ever encountered.

Tap Out: The Expat Hub

Tap Out has become the go-to spot for expat gatherings in Boquete, and it's easy to see why. Great atmosphere, good food and drinks, and a calendar packed with events. Here's what's happening there on a regular basis:

Tuesday Market

When: Every Tuesday, 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM

This weekly market brings together expats and local vendors for shopping, socializing, and catching up. It's a great place to find handmade goods, local produce, artisan crafts, and connect with the community. I never miss a Tuesday Market, even when I don't need to buy anything, it's become my weekly social touchstone. While you're there, ask the Tap Out staff about other events happening that week. The market has a wonderful energy, with people lingering over coffee and conversation long after they've finished their shopping.

Tuesday Trivia

When: Every Tuesday, 5:00 PM

Test your knowledge and meet new people at the weekly trivia night. It's casual, fun, and a great way to spend an evening. Teams form organically, so don't worry about showing up alone, you'll be adopted by a group before the first question is asked. The questions range from easy to surprisingly challenging, and the competitive spirit is friendly rather than intense.

Tuesday Movie Club

When: Tuesdays, 5:00 PM

For film lovers, the movie club offers a chance to watch and discuss films with fellow expats. It's a nice alternative to trivia if you prefer a more relaxed evening activity, and the post-film discussions often turn into broader conversations about life, travel, and everything in between.

Live Music Nights

Tap Out regularly hosts live music, which brings out a great crowd. Check their schedule for upcoming performances like Mofunk and other local acts, typically starting around 7:00 PM. There's something special about listening to live music in the cool mountain air, surrounded by good people.

Special Events

Tap Out also hosts special events throughout the year that bring the community together for good causes. For example, Club Rotario de Boquete is hosting a Masquerade Party Fundraiser for New Year's Eve (December 31, 2025) from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM with DJ Mike providing music. Tickets are $15 per person (available at MBE) and proceeds benefit Casa Hogar Trisker and other Rotary projects. These fundraising events are a wonderful way to give back to the local community while having a great time.

Stone Cabin: Friday Afternoon Hangout

When: Every Friday, 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM

Stone Cabin offers a more relaxed Friday afternoon gathering. It's a quieter venue where you can enjoy conversation and drinks with other expats to wind down the week. If Tap Out is the energetic social hub, Stone Cabin is its mellower counterpart, perfect for those who prefer intimate conversations over a packed house. I love ending my week here, especially after a long hike earlier in the day.

Big Daddy's

Another popular spot among the expat community. Check locally for their current schedule of events and gatherings. The expat scene in Boquete is dynamic, with venues occasionally adding new regular events, so it pays to ask around.

Looking for other ways to connect with Boquete's expat community? Browse our directory of local businesses and services, or read more expat living experiences on our blog.

Tips for Newcomers

• Just show up: These gatherings are informal and welcoming. No need to know anyone beforehand, I walked into my first Tuesday Market knowing no one and left with three coffee invitations.
• Ask around: Schedules can change, so when you attend one event, ask about others happening that week.
• Tuesday is the big day: If you can only make one day, Tuesday at Tap Out gives you the market in the morning and trivia in the evening.
• Check social media: Local Facebook groups often have the latest updates on events and meet-ups. The Boquete expat groups are active and helpful.
• Bring business cards: If you have a skill or service to offer, networking happens naturally at these events.
• Be patient: Deeper friendships take time to develop, but acquaintances come quickly here.

The Bottom Line

Boquete has an active and welcoming expat community with regular opportunities to connect. The Tuesday Market at Tap Out is probably the best starting point since it draws the biggest crowd and happens during convenient daytime hours. From there, you'll quickly learn about all the other gatherings and find your people.

One thing I love about this community is how multigenerational and diverse it is. You'll meet retirees, digital nomads, entrepreneurs, artists, and adventurers from all over the world. The common thread? Everyone chose Boquete for a reason, and people love sharing their stories about how they ended up here.

For more resources on living in Boquete and Panama, visit Expatslist to connect with services, read community stories, and find everything you need to thrive as an expat.

See you around town!