The Best Time to Visit Aruba

See Also

• Where to Pass Time in Aruba
• Top Hotels in Aruba for Families

When is the Best Time to Visit Aruba?

The most suitable period to visit Aruba is from April to August. This timeframe avoids the peak season with larger crowds, so groups of people are smaller and lodging locations and plane tickets have higher discounts.

Even though it is summer, the consistent winds and brief rain showers help keep the island pleasant

• Optimal weather from mid-February to May.
• Best Period for Sightseeing: April-May.
• Best Time for Honeymoon: April-August.
• Best Time for Saving Money: September-October.
• Best Time for Families: June-August.
• Prime Period for Partying: January-February.
• Best Time for Snorkeling: Mid-April to August.
• Best Time for Wind-Surfing: May-July.

• Most Suitable Moment to Tour Aruba: The finest interval to visit Aruba is from April to May, after the island`s highest traveler period has ended and preceding the scorching summertime temperatures set in. April and May get the minimum amount of precipitation and fall immediately prior to the beginning of the tropical storm season, which seldom influences Aruba, but do bring increased rainfall. Early fall is also a good time to visit to take advantage of the low season costs and fewer crowds, but these are the rainiest months of the year and have the highest probabilities of tropical storms.
• Best Time for Families While Considering Children`s School: When scheduling around kids’ education calendars, summer break offers the best option for Aruba since it remains considered an off-peak time. From June to August, travel discounts and hotel rates that are usually 20-50% cheaper than high season can be found. While other Caribbean islands experience hurricanes and tropical storms during these months, Aruba receives under 470mm of annual rainfall on average, and steady trade winds help regulate the summer heat, thus creating ideal conditions for sightseeing and sunny beach days with the children.
• Best Timeframe for Booking Hotels in Aruba: Top hotels and resorts, particularly those situated along the beach or with optimal panoramic beach views, commonly receive reservations far in advance during high season. For a vacation falling between December and March, begin searching 6-12 months ahead to find more affordable pricing and selection for hotels located along Palm Beach and Eagle Beach. From April through August, due to the conclusion of high season and the onset of hurricane season, last minute hotel deals can sometimes be discovered within 3 months or less prior to your trip. If you plan to visit between September and November, make lodging reservations 3-6 months in advance.
• Best Period to Save Funds: Many vacationers prevent traveling to Aruba from September to October owing to the trade winds dying out and the average every day temperature soaring to 30°C. With no crowds and plenty of hotel deals, early autumn is an perfect time to visit if high temperatures don’t trouble you. Just pack sunscreen with a high sun protection factor, lightweight clothing, a light rain jacket, and a water-resistant bag for your valuables. Beaches are hardly ever crowded, activities aren’t fully reserved, same-day reservations are conceivable at restaurants, and well-known hotels can be reserved for 20-50% less when compared to the high season.
• Most ideal Time for Socializing: Aruba celebrates its yearly Carnival for 6 weeks from January to February with numerous occasions, parades, gatherings, challenges, concerts, and moving happening in different areas and urban areas. The biggest occasions like the Grand Parade and the Grand Children’s Parade all occur in Aruba`s capital of Oranjestad. Be set up to pay top costs for lodgings during this time and book convenience ahead.

Aruba Travel Seasons

• Peak Period (December to March): Winter marks the busiest time of year in Aruba, with January through February being specifically congested because of the Festival season. December to March is typically when most individuals opt to explore as vacations start and chilly conditions persist in northern areas. Even though Aruba consistently encounters temperate temperatures and a relative lack of tropical storms, the weather from November to March creates ideal situations for travelers seeking warmth and daylight. Aruba`s annual 6-week Festival highlights road gatherings and celebrations that visitors can participate in all across the island. With typical everyday temperatures of 27-28°C, less rainfall, cooler nights, and gentle yet warm and bright conditions, winter sees the largest crowds and flights of tourists arriving in Aruba. To sightsee and visit attractions like the Donkey Sanctuary, it is advised to arrive early, near opening hours, to circumvent peak crowds.”
• Shoulder Season (early April to August): There is some debate as to whether there is a true shoulder season in Aruba or if there is only a high season from December to early April followed by a low season from early April to November. There is also differing opinions on whether the high season begins in December or September. We have considered the shoulder season as running from April to August with winter holiday visitors departing by the end of March, though the island does not experience as large a decrease in visitors like in the fall. Temperatures tend to be higher from April to August but trade winds moderate the heat, keeping the climate comfortable and enjoyable. There are still plenty of events to participate in during the summer months. The last week of April has King`s Day celebrations, the last week of May can bring some crowds with the 5-day Soul Beach Music Festival, and the Aruba Hi-Winds Kitesurfing Competition takes place in late June-early July.
• Low Period (September to November): Fall marks the end of the hurricane season, which is also the slow time of year in Aruba. September to November-end generally brings the lowest rates and fewest guests. October and November are some of the wettest months of the year but usually, rain showers only last a few minutes before moving on, so activities and beaches can still be enjoyed with fewer crowds. Hotels regularly offer significant discounts ranging from 20-50% compared to the peak season. However, hotels sometimes leverage the low season for new construction or renovation, so be sure to call and ask before reserving your room. Some activities and attractions scale back a bit during the low season, so a tour operator may offer only 3 excursions per day instead of 6, and restaurants might close an hour earlier. Be sure to plan ahead and confirm activities and reservations with these possible changes in mind.

Aruba Weather by Month

Of around 700 islands in the Caribbean, Aruba consistently has the minimum amount of rainfall while enjoying a tropical climate year-round with average daytime temperatures of 29°C. The trade winds soothe the heat and blow almost all year long, providing relief from the muggy humidity. The eastern coast of Aruba is impacted by strong sea currents whereas the western and southern coasts are more protected. However, as it is a flat island, the climate does not differ from coast to coast.

• Weather in Aruba in January: As the coolest month, January still maintains a comfortable climate in Aruba with typical daytime highs of 27°C and mild nighttime lows of 24°C. Unlike other islands in the northern Caribbean which can become quite cool during winter, particularly at night, Aruba sustains relatively high temperatures year-round. Precipitation is light in January as the rainy season begins tapering off, with approximately 40mm expected over around 8 days on average. Sunshine is plentiful at 8 hours daily, allowing ample time to enjoy the beach where swimming conditions are ideal with water temperatures near 26°C. Pack light clothes made from breathable fabrics like cotton or linen and possibly a lightweight raincoat for thunderstorms. Due to being the chilliest month, a light sweater and long pants for evenings are also advised. (Average Max Temperature: 29°C. Average Precipitation: 40mm.)
• Weather Conditions in Aruba During February: The climate in February remains fairly comparable to January, with a minor increase in the average temperatures and a significant decrease in precipitation. The mean daily high is 28°C with a low of 24°C. Mid-February marks the start of the driest time period of the year, with approximately 5 rainy days anticipated for the full month. The sun is out for 8 hours per day and the ocean temperature stays comfortable at 26°C – ideal scenarios for spending time at the beach and swimming in the sea. Pack similar to how you would for January, remembering those lightweight layers for the cooler evenings and sunscreen for powerful UV rays during daylight hours. The sunshine in Aruba is intensely strong and the constant breeze from the trade winds can be misleading. Sunscreen is absolutely essential for everyone. (Average highest temperature: 29°C. Average rainfall: 20mm.)
• Aruba Weather in March: The month of March brings warmer temperatures and only two days expected to see rainfall to the island of Aruba. Average highs remain around 28°C but can rise to 30°C on occasion, while lows increase slightly to approximately 25°C. Sunshine hours stay at eight on average and sea temperatures remain 26°C, allowing visitors a chance to cool down. Packing lightweight tropical clothing, swimwear, and sun protection including SPF 35 or greater sunscreen is advised as UV rays are potent at this time. (Average Max Temperature: 30°C. Average Precipitation: 10mm.)
• The climate of Aruba in April: April is another dry month of the year with climatic conditions similar to March, although peak high temperatures can rise by 2°C, signaling the beginning of summer and the end of spring with the promise of warmer temperatures and greater humidity. The average daily high remains at 28°C with a low of 25°C and rainfall is anticipated on only two days throughout the month. April provides ideal circumstances to benefit from sunny beach days averaging 8 hours of daily sunlight while the sea offers an opportunity to cool down at 26°C. Pack as you would for March: lightweight summer clothing, multiple swimsuits, and diverse methods of sun protection, like high-SPF sunscreen. (Average Peak Temperature: 32°C. Average Precipitation: 10mm.)
• Aruba Weather in May: May represents a great month to visit Aruba as the crowds are much smaller and hot summer weather is just around the corner. The average daily high stays at 28°C but can rise up to 32°C throughout the month. The average low increases to 26°C, so booking lodging with air conditioning is recommended to remain comfortable at night. Precipitation barely increases in May, with only 2 expected rainy days but 5mm more than in April. Bring loose, lightweight clothing as well as sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to enjoy the 8 hours of daily sunshine. With sea temperatures at 27°C, pack a few swimsuits to swim in the sea as well as at the hotel. (Average Max Temperature: 32°C. Average Precipitation: 15mm.)
• Aruba Weather in June: June marks the start of the hot summertime weather in Aruba, with temperatures reaching a maximum of 33°C on average and daily averages of 29°C. The consistent trade winds continue to keep the climate comfortable, providing a strong breeze all month long. The average low remains at 26°C and daylight hours increase to 9, allowing for more time to enjoy swimming in the sea, which stays a balmy 27°C. June also heralds the beginning of hurricane season, lasting through November and peaking from August to October. While tropical storms and hurricanes do genuinely threaten, they rarely strike Aruba as the island sits on the southern edge of the hurricane belt, and hurricanes tend toward the north. The most recent hurricanes to hit Aruba were Omar in October 2008 and Felix in 2007. That said, checking forecasts and purchasing travel insurance is wise when visiting during hurricane season. Despite marking the start of hurricane season, rainfall remains fairly low in June with only around 3 days experiencing precipitation on average throughout the month. Pack as you would for May: light summer attire, open-toed shoes and sandals for the beach, multiple swimsuits, and various sun protective measures, including high-SPF sunscreen. (Average Max Temperature: 33°C. Average Precipitation: 20mm.)
• Aruba Weather in July: July is one of the warmest months of the year in Aruba, however the trade winds continue to provide a cooling breeze which can be misleading when it comes to UV rays. With 10 hours of daily sunshine, regularly applying sunscreen, especially after swimming, is essential to protect against sunburn. July also brings a slight increase in rainfall, with an average of 5 days with precipitation. However, showers tend to be very brief, offering a respite from the heat and leaving plenty of sunshine to enjoy. The average daily high remains at 29°C and the daily night-time low averages 26°C. Pack loose, lightweight clothing, sun protection, open-toed shoes, and sandals. With sea temperatures at 27°C, take a few bathing suits to swim in the sea as well as at the hotel. (Average Max Temperature: 33°C. Average Precipitation: 30mm.)

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• Conditions in Aruba Throughout August: The month of August is among the hottest periods of the year with average daily temperatures reaching 30°C, and highs that can hit 34°C. Nightly temperatures generally hover around 27°C, so travelers should book lodgings with air conditioning and temperature-regulated pools to remain comfortable during the sweltering days and warm evenings. It`s also a smart idea to pack rain gear and a waterproof bag for valuables since August presents some of the highest risks of tropical storms. Despite higher probabilities of storms forming, rainfall amounts tend to be lower in August compared to July, averaging around 4 days with showers. Daily sunshine diminishes to approximately 9 hours but still allows plenty of opportunities for beach time, excursions and other outdoor pursuits. Sea surface temperatures climb to a pleasant 28°C, so cooler hotel pool areas may offer better relief from the heat. It`s important to use strong sun protection, stay hydrated carrying water, and take precautions against sun damage as UV indexes stay elevated. Pack clothing, sandals, swimwear suitable for tropical conditions. (Average Maximum Temperature: 34°C. Average Precipitation: 25mm.)

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• Among notable facts about weather in Aruba during September: This marks the beginning of the wet season on the island, which is also the low season for tourists. Average temperatures are around 30°C each day, with less of a breeze to offset the heat due to declining trade winds. Nightly lows remain comparable to August at approximately 27°C, making accommodations with air conditioning crucial for comfortable sleeping. Rainfall increases this month, though showers are brief and spaced out over four days generally, allowing the rest of the period to be dry and sunny with about nine hours of daily sunlight optimum for swimming in the warm sea averaging 28°C. Those visiting would be well prepared with lightweight tropical attire as well as moisture-wicking clothes, sandals, and sun protection. (Average Maximum Temperature: 33°C. Average Precipitation: 45mm.)
• Aruba Weather in October: The month of October has one of the highest chances for tropical storms and hurricanes in Aruba along with September. While Aruba faces less risk from hurricanes and storms than other Caribbean islands, checking weather reports and purchasing trip insurance is strongly advised. This increased probability of storms also doubles the rainfall compared to September with an average of 7 rainy days, so pack a light jacket, waterproof shoes, and a waterproof bag to protect valuables in case of rain. October is considered the best month for swimming in the sea though, with water temperatures being the highest all year at 29°C. The average daily high drops one degree to 29°C in October, and the average daily low decreases to 26°C. However, with less trade winds, the heat is not alleviated, so booking an air-conditioned hotel room is recommended to stay comfortable at night. Daily sunshine hours fall to 8 but UV rays remain intense making sun protection essential. Also bring tropical-friendly, lightweight clothes, bathing suits along with rain gear and sun protection. (Average Maximum Temperature: 32°C. Average Precipitation: 80mm.)
• Weather Conditions in Aruba during November: November signals the end of hurricane season in the island country of Aruba while also marking the beginning of the shoulder period as more visitors commence traveling to the location to escape colder temperatures further north. Daily high temperatures average 28°C whereas nighttime lows remain at 26°C consistently. November represents the rainiest month of the year with precipitation falling on roughly 11 days on average, so planning to engage in indoor activities and sights is advised, despite there still being a fair chance of no rainfall as the showers are quite moderate in comparison to other Caribbean islands. Sea surface temperatures in November maintain an average of 28°C, allowing for comfortable and warm swimming conditions, so remember to pack your bathing suit, sandals for the coastline, sun protection since UV indexes are elevated, as well as a lightweight raincoat, waterproof footwear, and a waterproof carrier to safeguard valuables in the event of precipitation. (Maximum Average Temperature: 32°C. Average Precipitation: 95mm.)
• Aruba Weather in December: December is the second rainiest month of the year with 11 days seeing precipitation and also the first month of winter, reflected in the marginally lower temperatures. The typical daily high hovers around 27°C, dipping down to a low of 25°C. Despite the high rainfall, sunshine persists for an average of 7 hours daily, allowing ample time for the beach and excursions. Comparable to October and November, make sure to pack a lightweight rain jacket, rainproof footwear, and a waterproof bag to shield valuables in case you get caught in the rain, as showers tend toward the heavy side in December. The sea remains warm and comfortable at 27°C, so pack a few swimsuits as well as sunscreen as UV rays are strong in Aruba even in December. Take summer clothing, shorts, tee-shirts, and dresses along with a few light layers for cooler evenings. (Average Max Temperature: 31°C. Average Precipitation: 80mm.)

Aruba Holidays, Events, and Festivals

The Aruba Carnival spans 6 weeks across January, February, and/or March yearly, with a jam-packed schedule of spectacular parades, musical shows, elections, contests, and street parties featuring colorful floats and costumes, traditional and international music by DJs and bands, and lots of local food and drinks. The schedule is published each year on November 11th.

Aruba in January

• New Year’s Day (Jan 1) – New Year’s Day is an official holiday in Aruba and most businesses, banks, and schools are usually closed. One tradition to mark the new year is taking the “New Year’s Plunge” or “Unox Nieuwjaarsduik” at Moomba Beach in Noord. At midnight, hundreds of swimmers run into the sea together to welcome the new year.
• Torch Parade – The torch-lit procession is the initial parade of the yearly Aruba Carnival and takes place in Oranjestad on the first Saturday of January.
• Prince & Pancho Election – In addition to parades, the Aruba Carnival hosts several exciting contests and competitions. The Prince and Pancho Election is an annual event that is part of Aruba Carnival celebrations in early January in the Carnival Village in San Nicolas. The Prince and Pancho are 2 figures in Aruba`s carnival traditions selected for their humor, personality, messages, and popularity with audiences.
• Parada di Blaas – A hot air balloon parade in San Nicolas.
• The Tumberito Festival – A children’s Tumba music celebration that takes place in the Carnival Village in San Nicolas. It is a diminutive version of the Aruba Grand Tumba Festival. The Tumberito Festival offers an opportunity for kids and young participants to showcase their Tumba music talents.
• Betico Croes Day (January 25) – Aruba pays tribute to the late Aruban political leader, Gilberto Francois (Betico) Croes on his birthday. This official holiday includes various cultural, sports, and musical events across the island along with a national celebration at Plaza Betico in Oranjestad. Being an official Aruban holiday, expect shops, gas stations, and supermarkets to close early or remain closed for the whole day.
• Caiso & Soca Monarch (January through early February) – The Caiso & Soca Monarch involves 3 days of Calypso & Roadmarch music (internationally referred to as Soca music instead of Roadmarch) competitions over 2 days of preliminaries and a spectacular grand finale on the final day. The contest occurs at the Carnival Village in San Nicolas. Contenders vie against each other for the ultimate designation of King or Queen of Caiso & Soca music.

Aruba in February

• Super Saturday Soca Finals – Held at the Carnival Village in San Nicolas, it is the final night of the Soca category of the Aruba Caiso & Soca Monarch competition.
• Gran Tumba Contest – Held at the Carnival Village in San Nicolas, this competition showcases performers demonstrating Tumba music. Tumba is considered a musical genre originating in the ABC islands and plays a central role in Aruban culture. While Tumba isn`t part of the carnival itself, rules mandate songs reference the festivities to honor the celebrations. The winner earns the title of Tumba King or Queen. Tumba artists only sing in Papiamento.
• Children’s Parade Noord – The district of Noord hosts its own children’s parade during Carnival. Youngsters representing primary schools and social groups, as well as infants, participate in the parade wearing differently themed costumes with colorful balloons, decorations, and headwear. The Children’s Parade Noord takes place between 1-5 pm from Bubali Commercial Center to Centro Di Bario Noord.
• Transfer of sovereign authority – Generally held at Bestuurskantoor, the administrative center of the island government in Oranjestad, it is a ceremony where executive power of the island is officially passed from the Prime Minister of Aruba to the Prince and leader of Aruba’s Carnival celebrations along with a symbolic “key to the islands”. For the duration of the Carnival season until midnight on Ash Wednesday, they will symbolically govern in place of the regular administration.

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• Lit Parade – An evening celebration with thousands of tiny illuminated decorations incorporated into costumes, floats, and more. Live groups accompany the various participating festival groups playing music for the dancers and attendees. Held downtown in Oranjestad, the parade starts at 8 pm and concludes at 2 am.
• Grand Children’s Carnival Parade (mid-February) – The biggest children’s parade of the Carnival takes place in downtown Oranjestad. Beginning at the Avenida Milo Croes and ending at Wilhelminastraat, the Grand Children’s Parade takes place from 2-6 pm. Hundreds of children from all the Carnival groups participate in colorful costumes and dance in the parade.
• A masquerade ball hosted by the Palm Beach Aruba Kiwanis Club at the Renaissance Convention Center to raise money for the less fortunate. It takes place at night, usually from 9:30 pm to 2:30 am.

” Kiwanis Masquerade Ball

• Annual San Nicolas Carnival Parade – Serving as a prelude to the Grand Carnival Parade in Oranjestad, this procession features elaborately decorated floats accompanied by dancers, wending its way through the streets of San Nicolas from noon until 5 pm.
• Aruba`s Grand Procession – The biggest carnival parade is the Grand Procession through Oranjestad, held on the Sunday ahead of Ash Wednesday. This parade comprises music in addition to floats and costumes in varying designs. The occasion starts at 12 pm and continues until 6 pm. This is the most extensive and lengthy of all the Aruba Carnival parades, with the most spectators and participants.
• Burn Out Monday/Carnival Monday – The Monday after the grand carnival parades that take place over the weekend is an official holiday known as Carnival Monday. On this day of rest, everyone has a chance to recuperate from all of the festivities from the past two months. Most facilities in Aruba will close early or remain closed the whole day.
• Old Mask Parade & Burning of King Momito (February 25) – This event marks the conclusion of the carnival season in the district of San Nicolas and the beginning of Lent. It starts with a parade at around 7 pm and concludes at midnight with the symbolic burning of King Momito (little Momo), the spirit of Aruba’s carnival.

Aruba in March

Suggested Accommodations: Grand Hyatt Kauai( luxury) · Koa Kea (luxury) · Whaler’s Cove (moderate)

Aruba in April

• Good Friday (variable dates) – An official vacation in Aruba, Good Friday forms the start of the Easter extended weekend and the beginning of the Holy Week. A unique celebration is held each year at the church in Dakota, starting at 10 am.
• Easter Monday (variable dates) – Part of the Easter holiday weekend and an official holiday in Aruba, when shops and banks may remain closed. Expect Eagle Beach, Hadicurari Beach, and Baby Beach to be packed with tents and improvised kitchens as Beach Camping is an Aruban Easter tradition.
• King’s Day (April 27) – An official Aruban holiday, Aruba celebrates the birthday of the ruler of the Netherlands on April 27th through hosting an official government event honoring their leader at Wilhelmina Park in central Oranjestad followed by community fairs, kite flying tournaments, sporting competitions, and other functions at various local centers. You can expect many locales to have shortened operating times or remain completely closed that day.
• As highlighted in strong and linked text,Island Festtakes place in the final week of every month between the times of 7-10 pm in the city of San Nicolas City. The festivities referenced included art, music, and dance shows that underscore the history of San Nicolas, along with local foods, and well known musicians and performers.

Aruba in May

• Labour Day (May 1) – Labour day is an official holiday in Aruba and commemorates the achievements of the labour movement.
• Ascension Day (variable) – A Christian religious observance commemorating Jesus Christ’s ascension. Ascension Day is usually attended primarily in Catholic and Anglican churches across the island. It is also an official public holiday in Aruba.
• Soul Seaside Music Event (May 25-31) – A large music occasion with seaside social gatherings, comedy shows, pool social gatherings, block social gatherings, and music concerts featuring globally renowned musicians.

Aruba in June

• Aruba Summer Music Festival (variable dates) – A three-day music event featuring renowned performers and local bands and DJs. It takes place at Aruba`s Harbor Square Arena, attracting thousands of residents and visitors.
• COOLinary Food Festival (June 1) – Hosted at the Renaissance Marketplace in Oranjestad, a variety of dishes from different participating restaurants are offered at a “cool” price along with musical entertainment.
• Dera Gai (June 24) – This cultural celebration held on the Feast of St. John the Baptist is to give thanks for the bountiful harvest of the past year and request blessings for the future harvest`s success. This tradition dates back to 1862. Festival activities include a festive song of bright yellow and red costumes, traditional dances at various community centers, and fires lit across the island on St. John’s Day continuing the homage to the bonfires long ago built to communicate the holiday`s arrival.
• Aruba International Triathlon (June-end) – Global rivals contribute in a triathlon comprised of a 1.5km swim, 40km bike race, and 10km run. Beginners can test their endurance in the smaller triathlon that involves a 750m swim, 20km bike race, and 5km run. Starting at Eagle Beach, over 100 athletes participate in this occasion hosted by the Aruba Triathlon Association.

Aruba in July

• Aruba Hi-Winds Kitesurfing Windsurfing Tournament (early July) – Said to be one of the largest sporting events of its category in the Caribbean, this 4-day competition takes place annually on Palm Beach. Both international and local windsurfers and kitesurfers gather to participate in a range of races like semi-long distance for kite juniors, kite freestyle, windsurfing slalom races, windsurfing freestyle match, kite boarding, and windsurfing long distance races.
• Aruba Symphony Festival (July/August) – An internationally renowned event where each calendar year, first-class musicians from over 15 nations perform in Aruba across 9 solar days. Occasions incorporate complete-house concerts, workshops, seminars, and classes led by celebrated worldwide artists.

Aruba in August

• Vow Renewal Ceremony in Aruba – Held on the stunning Eagle Beach, couples renew their marriage commitments surrounded by family and friends in a romantic setting as the sun sets, with free champagne, appetizers, and music.
• The annual 3-day International Regatta (held in late August) at the Surfside Beach features international yachts, catamarans, sunfish, kitesurfers, and windsurfers competing during the daytime along with evening beach parties and music.

Aruba in September

• Race from Turibana to Santa Cruz over 10km: An open road competition that starts at 5:30 am at Panaderia del Campo in Noord and concludes at the Betico Croes Sports Complex in Santa Cruz.
• Aruba Art Fair (variable dates) – An annual, 3-day art fair in San Nicolas where worldwide and local artists create public art and graffiti. The fair also features music, dancing, poetry, art exhibits, local cuisine and beverages, and various live entertainment.
• The Aruba Reef Care Project – An annual beach and reef clean up event that brings together more than 800 local and international participants. This event is the island’s largest volunteer initiative and serves as a great eco-tourism opportunity.

Aruba in October

• Shoco Artfest Aruba (dates that can vary) – Launched in 2019 and hosted at MotorWorld Aruba, this event highlights the creative community in Aruba by showcasing wood and rock sculptures, airbrush and paintbrush artworks on vehicles like trucks and bicycles, entertainment with live music, tattoo demonstrations, and a silent auction with proceeds benefiting the Casa Cuna Foundation.
• Bartender’s Brawl (October-end) – An annual contest in Oranjestad showcases Aruba`s skilled cocktail makers as they creatively craft distinctive alcoholic drinks for attendees to experience and vote on their preferred selection. Judges also judge and pick another favorite. The event`s ticket grants admission to 8 locally flavored cocktails and appetizers.

Aruba in November

• Carnival (November 11) – The yearly festivities widely known as Carnival season officially commences each year at 11:11 am on November 11th. During a ceremony held on this date, the schedule outlining all of the competing events, organized parties, and parades for the upcoming season is declared. From November 11th up until December 31st, participants have time to prepare themselves for Carnival. All contests, parties, and parades are scheduled to begin following New Year`s celebrations, with the initial parade – Torch Parade – placed on the first Saturday in January. Traditionally, the final parade of the season is held on the weekend just prior to Ash Wednesday.
• Sinterklaas (mid-November) – The figure representing Saint Nicholas, a 3rd-century bishop patron of children and giver of gifts, arrives by boat in mid-November with helpers at Aruba Ports Authority in Oranjestad, followed by a parade with music and activities for children. During the parade, Sint and helpers greet children, rewarding good behavior with gifts and candy. In the days leading up to his December 6th birthday, Sinterklaas and helpers make appearances at island schools and businesses, with the harbor arrival and parade as main public celebrations.

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• Carnival Costume Show (November-end) – The primary festivity of the carnival involves a display featuring outfits from the preceding year’s carnival occurring at AMICE in Oranjestad from 6-9 pm.

Aruba in December

• Frozen Yuletide Christmas Marketplace (December 1-23) – The biggest Christmas Market in Aruba takes place at the Renaissance Marketplace in Oranjestad. The area is embellished with Christmas lighting, a Christmas tree, and wooden Christmas cottages containing exhibits for local merchants to sell an assortment of unique items. Activities involve meet-and-greet with Father Christmas and his elves, an arts and crafts nook for children, an ice-skating rink, musical entertainment, and a buyable Christmas Village. The marketplace operates from December 1-23 from 6-10pm.

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• Christmas Day (December 25) – Local inhabitants commonly repair and paint their homes before decorating with Christmas trees, lights, and ornaments. A new convention that originated a few years ago is the ornamentation of traffic circles around the island. Each circle is decorated by a local company or organization and its unveiling takes place with a small ceremony as soon as the ornaments are completed. It is worthwhile driving around the island to admire all the beautifully transformed homes, offices, and traffic circles. Gaita bands spread the traditional sounds of Christmas during gatherings and festivities. From November till Christmas, you will find Gaita bands in shopping malls, restaurants, stores, and private residences.
• Boxing Day (December 26) – An official public holiday in Aruba, developing from colonial eras as a Dutch custom. All workplaces and shops will be closed but hotels, their facilities, and most restaurants and bars will be open as standard.
• Dande Festival (December 27) – This biggest traditional music occasion in Aruba gathers more than 50 singers, helped by musical groups, to present authentic compositions and traditional Dande songs. The Dande groups are traveling performers who bless local families during the New Year – a custom that started around 1880 when house slaves in Aruba were freed. The festival celebrates a local tradition that is distinctive to Aruba.
• New Years Eve (December 31) – The final day of the year, December 31st, sees many traditions honored as well as ongoing fireworks shows across the island. Virtually every hotel and resort hosts a special New Years Eve evening meal or celebration. Verify with your lodging about any events and activities they hold. Most occasions and restaurants book up quite fast for this date so make reservations in advance. A common local custom heading into the new year is setting off pagaras, long strings of firecrackers. Pagaras will explode all around the island and signify closing time for regional organizations. In line with tradition, the firecrackers also purportedly repel any malign spirits.

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