Aruba Events & Festivals

Public Holiday

Kick off the year on One Happy Island! Celebrations carry on from the night before with fireworks over the coast, beach parties, and festive gatherings across the island.

National Holiday

Aruba honors the birthday of Gilberto François 'Betico' Croes, the Father of the Status Aparte and champion of Aruban autonomy. Ceremonies and tributes take place island-wide.

Grand Parade & Celebrations

One of the Caribbean's most spectacular Carnivals! Weeks of parades, music competitions, queen elections, and street parties culminate in the Grand Parade through Oranjestad. A must-see event bursting with color, rhythm, and island spirit.

50th Anniversary — Special Celebration 2026

2026 marks the historic 50th anniversary of Aruba's National Anthem and Flag. This year's celebration is extra special with concerts, cultural performances, and ceremonies honoring the symbols of Aruban identity. The entire island comes together in pride.

Religious Holiday

A solemn public holiday observed across Aruba. Churches hold special services and many businesses are closed as islanders observe this important Christian tradition.

Public Holiday

Easter Sunday and Easter Monday are both public holidays in Aruba. Families gather for celebrations, churches hold festive services, and beaches fill with visitors enjoying the long weekend.

Kingdom Holiday

Celebrating the birthday of King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands. As part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Aruba joins the celebrations with orange-clad festivities, markets, and parties.

International Worker's Holiday

A public holiday recognizing the contributions of workers across Aruba. Families enjoy a day off with barbecues, beach outings, and community gatherings.

38th Edition — World-Class Windsurfing

One of the world's premier windsurfing and kitesurfing competitions returns for its 38th edition. Athletes from around the globe compete on Aruba's legendary trade winds, with jaw-dropping freestyle and slalom races along L.G. Smith Blvd.

Religious Holiday

A public holiday observed 40 days after Easter Sunday. Many Arubans attend church services while others enjoy the extended long weekend at beaches and with family.

Volunteer Action Days

Aruba's largest volunteer initiative brings thousands of residents together to give back to the community. From beach cleanups and school renovations to elderly support and environmental projects — the island unites in action.

Memorial Day Weekend

The legendary Aruba Soul Beach Music Festival lights up Memorial Day Weekend with world-class R&B, hip-hop, and soul artists performing on beachside stages. One of the Caribbean's most celebrated music events draws thousands from across the Americas.

Year-Long Anniversary Celebrations

2026 marks Aruba's 40th anniversary of achieving separate status within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Throughout the year the government and community are hosting special events, exhibitions, and ceremonies celebrating four decades of self-governance.

Traditional Harvest Celebration

One of Aruba's most cherished traditional celebrations. Dera Gai (burying the rooster) is an old Aruban custom marking the end of the corn harvest, featuring traditional music, food, dances, and community gatherings in neighborhoods across the island.

Dutch Holiday Tradition

The arrival of Sinterklaas is celebrated across Aruba, reflecting the island's Dutch heritage. Children receive gifts and surprises while festive events take place in Oranjestad's town center.

Public Holiday

Christmas Day and Second Christmas Day are both public holidays. Arubans celebrate with family gatherings, church services, and festive meals featuring local favorites. The streets of Oranjestad are beautifully decorated throughout the season.