Are you ready to party? I hope so, because Carnival in Curaçao is here and it’s bigger and better than ever! This year the festivities start on February 1 and believe me, it’s an event you don’t want to miss.
For those new to the island; Carnival a two-month celebration that takes place before Lent prior to Easter. The festivities are marked by parades, live music, dancing and, of course, lots of good food and drink.
The highlight of the celebrations is the last week, when the streets come alive with the sounds of Tumba music and the colors of elaborate costumes.
One of the most exciting parts of Carnival are the parades, which take place throughout the festive season. There are several parades to choose from, each with its own unique flavor. Here are a few of the most popular:
The Horse Parade
This parade has decorated horses and riders and it is spectacular to see.
The Children’s Parade
This parade is specially designed for children, who dress up in colorful and creative costumes and dance through the streets.
The Teen Parade
The teens have their own parade, with costumes they designed themselves. It’s smaller, but just as much fun as the other parades!
De Banda Abou Parade
This parade is a little different from the others, as it takes a different route toward the western part of the island.
The Gran Marcha
This parade is always held on a Sunday and it is a veritable overload of the senses, with loud music, beautiful costumes and lots of food and drink.
The Great Farewell Parade
This is the parade everyone looks forward to. It begins at night and follows the same route as the Gran Marcha. The darkness adds to the magic of the lights and costumes, making it an unforgettable experience.
And let’s not forget the music:
Tumba
Tumba is the official music of Carnival in Curaçao and it is a mixture of Latin American and Caribbean sounds. With its upbeat rhythms and infectious beats, it is almost impossible not to dance along. Every year there is a four-day music festival to choose the Tumba King or Queen, whose song becomes the “theme song” of the carnival. You’ll hear it everywhere during the parades!
Carnival in Curaçao is a celebration like no other. It is a time to let loose, enjoy and make memories with friends and family. So, come along and join us for the party of the year!