Carnival on Aruba – Clownish Goings-On with Caribbean flair

Aruba’s largest party of the year is presently under way: The 56th carnival season was opened on New Year’s Day and extends all the way to Ash Wednesday in February.
The fifth season is celebrated on Aruba with hot rhythms, parades and extravagant carnival costumes. Enthused locals and visitors are electrified and swept away by carnival fever. The clownish goings-on have their splendid climax with the Grand Parade on the 14th of February – Carnival Sunday.
The highlights of the carnival season 2010

29th January – 56th Nomination of the Carnival Queen
A jury of international competition judges decides based on talent and presentation who shall be the next winner of the prestigious title of the carnival, „Aruba’s Carnival Queen”.

30th January – Grand Final Calypso & Roadmarch Contest in San Nichlas
The best bands and singer of the island compete for the title of King / Queen of Calypsos and Roadmarchs.

6th February – Aruba’s Tivoli Lighting Parade in Oranjestad
The most popular evening entertainment of the carnival: Costumes, streets and floats lighten in the glow of thousands of small lights.

7th February – Children’s Grand Carnival Parade in Oranjestad
Largest children carnival parade with hundreds of costumed and dancing kids.

11th February – Lighting Parade in San Nicolas
Carnival temperament with a lot of dance and music.

13th February - Jouvert Morning
This “Pyjama-Party” is probably the largest and most spectacular carnival event of Aruba. At around 4 a.m. the local musicians and bands commence on a procession through the streets of San Nicolas. At least until sunrise…

14th February – Arubas 56th Grand Carnival Parade
The pompous climax of the popular carnival time: From afternoon onwards musicians and magnificent decorated floats pass though the streets of Oranjestads.

15th February – Carnival Monday
Official holiday on Aruba. From 4 p.m. one can attend the traditional horse parade in Oranjestad.

16th February – Old Mask Parade & Burning of King Momo
The actual end of Aruba’s carnival is symbolised by the burning of „King Momo” on the evening of Ash Wednesday – a joyous procession that goes through the capital city.
Why not experience this carnival – you can find affordable luxury hotels on Aruba - we look forward to planning your vacation!