Carnaval in Aruba - The ultimate short guide
When visiting Aruba in the first two months of the year, you can expect to see costumes embellished with colorful sequins and feathers, people dancing to upbeat music, and out-of-this-world decorated floats. Why? Because it’s Carnaval season in Aruba!
In this guide we will share with you a brief history of Aruban Carnaval, the 2026 parade schedule, where to watch the parades and essentials to bring along. After reading you will be ready to celebrate this Aruban tradition like a true local!
A brief history of Aruban Carnaval
The celebration of Carnaval is not unique to Aruba. In many countries around the world carnaval is the celebration of the beginning of the Catholic fasting period.
Many Carnaval celebrations and styles were introduced in Aruba by immigrants from Trinidad, Jamaica and British Guyana who worked in the local refinery “Lago”. In 1954 they organized the first ever Carnaval parade in San Nicolas to commemorate the allied victory of World War II.
At the same time, Euro-American style carnaval events, such as masquerade balls and queen elections, were organized by Aruban social clubs.
In the years that followed these various styles and celebrations merged and became what Aruban Carnaval is today; a diverse cultural celebration enjoyed by the entire Aruban population.
Parades & festivals
Aruban Carnaval is an almost two-month-long celebration starting with the Torch Parade in early January and ending with the burning of Momo, the spirit of carnaval, just before Ash Wednesday.
After the torch parade, the Carnaval Queens, Prins & Pancho are elected and the best Calypso and Roadmarch songs are chosen. The winners will be featured during the many parades held in San Nicolas, Oranjestad and Noord. When you are visiting Aruba during Carnaval season and would like to experience some of the highlights, these are the most notable parades:
Children's Carnival Parade in Noord, Saturday January 31, 2026, starting at 3:00 PM. Especially suited if you don’t want to drive more than 5 minutes, yet still want a fun introduction to the ambiance of Aruba’s carnaval, its music and colorfulness while watching little carnavalistas pass by in adorable outfits. This is a daytime parade, so make sure you keep hydrated and apply sun protection.
Grand Lighting Parade in Oranjestad, Saturday February 7, 2026, starting at 8:00 PM. This parade features costumes and floats covered in lights and takes place in the soothing temperatures of the evening. If you’d like to be in bed earlier, we recommend finding a spot to watch along Vondellaan near the Banco di Caribe building, or other areas along Vondellaan. If you watch anywhere along L.G. Smith Boulevard, chances are you’ll see the parade later in the evening, and it can run into the early morning hours. Just something to keep in mind.
Jouvert Morning in San Nicolas, Saturday February 7, 2026, 3:00 AM to 10:00 AM. Not a typo: this parade starts in the middle of the night. It’s one of the most authentic, local events of the season and is perfect for adventurous souls and the young at heart. In the wee hours, a mainly younger crowd gathers in pajamas (or a creative interpretation) and dances into sunrise. Please note: it’s about a 45-minute drive to San Nicolas, and it’s highly recommended you attend with local friends who know where to park and where to go.
Grand Parade Weekend 2026:
- San Nicolas Grand Carnival Parade, Saturday February 14, 2026, 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
- Oranjestad Grand Carnival Parade, Sunday February 15, 2026, 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
These parades are the highlight of the season, with a minimum 4-hour parade of adult carnavalistas in beautifully adorned costumes, feathers and make-up, dancing to the beats of local bands and DJ’s. Expect big crowds along the roads and near parking areas, so arrive on time. Bring plenty of water and sun protection as it can get hot. San Nicolas and Oranjestad each have their own charm, and we can highly recommend both; if driving is not your thing, opt for the Oranjestad parade, it won’t disappoint!
For a full overview of Aruba's Carnival events and parades click here!
Where to watch & what to bring
The best place to watch the parades in Oranjestad is along the L.G. Smith Boulevard. Aruba Tourism Authority is located along this road and welcomes you to watch the parade with them! The Grand Children’s Parade (Oranjestad) on February 1, the Grand Lighting Parade on February 7, and the Grand Parade on February 15 can all be enjoyed from this location. Please let the front desk know if you would like to reserve a complimentary spot!
Here you can find the route from Boardwalk to the location of the Aruba Tourism Authority office. Note that the L.G. Smith Boulevard will not be accessible just before or during the parades, starting near the Boulevard Citgo station and continuing until the roundabout at Cas Di Cultura (the local theater).
Make sure to not forget the following items:
- Water, the Aruban sun at midday is no joke, especially when dancing and jumping along with the music. Drink LOTS of water to prevent heat stroke.
- Sunscreen, even when standing in the shade it is recommended to wear and re-apply a minimum SPF 30 every half hour.
- Snacks, the parades can last many hours so make sure to bring something to eat.
- Cooler, use the cooler provided to you in your casita to bring along your food & drinks. Don’t forget to fill it up with ice from the ice machine near the gate!
- Boardwalk chairs, ask the front desk for chairs to bring along.
- Earplugs, we can get a little carried away with the volume levels so make sure to protect your hearing.
- Wearing breezy clothes, a hat and sunglasses are also recommended.
Image and video credit: Aruba.com & Biblioteca Nacional Aruba