TBA. Events are usually held in January - February.
The Aruba Carnival is primarily celebrated in Oranjestad, Aruba.
The Aruban Carnival, celebrated annually in January and February, is a vibrant and culturally rich event that attracts visitors from around the world. The carnival has evolved through four eras. The first era, from 1921 to 1945, saw the emergence of carnival celebrations influenced by elite European-style balls and American festivities introduced by workers from the Lago Oil Refinery. These events laid the foundation for the carnival as it is known today.
The second era, from 1945 to 1954, witnessed the influence of English immigrants from the Caribbean on Aruba’s carnival, particularly the Trinidadian style. Parades and celebrations expanded, marking the end of World War II and the flourishing Trinidad carnival.
The third era, from 1954 to 1965, marked a significant collaboration between native Arubans and English groups. The first island-wide public carnival was organized, featuring grand parades in San Nicolas and Oranjestad. Carnival queen elections and calypso competitions became integral to the festivities.
The fourth era, from 1966 to the present, saw the establishment of the Stichting Arubaanse Carnaval (Aruban Carnival Foundation) in 1966. This foundation, founded on Fools Day, became the main organizer of the carnival. Over the years, the carnival has grown into one of the largest in the Caribbean, with a month full of parades and activities.
Tumba is a lively and rhythmic music genre characterized by its African and Caribbean influences.
Participants in the carnival don intricate and creative costumes, often with thematic designs. The costumes are a major highlight of the event, and participants invest considerable time and effort in their creation.
These parades showcase a diverse array of performances, including traditional dances, music, and theatrical presentations.
This event features a spectacular show with music, dance, and the presentation of the contestants.
This lively tradition, featuring the playful use of paint, oil, mud, and sometimes molasses, adds to the festive ambiance as revelers, known as "Jab Jabs," engage in energetic entertainment along the J'ouvert route.
Beyond the organized parades and galas, the streets of Oranjestad come alive with spontaneous parties, live music, and various cultural events.
Date: January – February 8, 2027 (TBC)
Location: Oranjestad & San Nicolas, Aruba
Time: Various times
Carnival Monday — an official public holiday in Aruba — falls on February 8, 2027. The full event schedule has not yet been published — we'll update this page as soon as it's announced.
Note: Changes to the schedule are beyond our control, so please check for updates before finalizing travel plans.
Aruba is easy to reach whether you’re coming from elsewhere in the Caribbean, North America, or internationally.
Ready to lock in your flights? Use the search tool above to compare fares and find the best deal for your Carnival trip.
The best areas to stay are Oranjestad (for proximity to the parade route) and the Palm Beach and Eagle Beach hotel strip, both within easy reach of all Carnival venues.
Use the above map to find and book hotels close to the Carnival parade route!
Getting around Aruba during Carnival is easy thanks to the island’s small size and short travel times between Oranjestad, San Nicolas, and the main event areas.
Explore Arikok National Park for desert-meets-ocean scenery, take a UTV tour to the Natural Pool, or sail the coast on a snorkel cruise through crystal-clear Caribbean waters. Foodie at heart? Hit up local spots in San Nicolas for fresh seafood and Carnival-week street eats. Prefer a chill day? Park yourself on Eagle Beach with a rum punch in hand and watch the sunset paint the sky gold.
We’ve gathered some of our most useful Carnival travel blogs to help you plan for Aruba Carnival and other Caribbean festivals:
