En Español

Carnival

As the largest and most important cultural event on Curaçao, Carnival brings together the more than 40 ethnic groups on the island in one flamboyant, frenetic celebration. Carnival season begins early in January with the Tumba Festival and ends the day before Ash Wednesday. Each year for the Grand Parade, tourists are invited to join the marching groups or to watch from a special tourist booth.

The Grand Parade turns the narrow streets leading into Willemstad into a writhing corridor of pulsating sound and energetic dance. About 30 groups, each with an elaborate costume theme and a 100-decibel sound truck, keep the non-stop party rocking until late into the night. Last year, one group had a Noah's Ark float with members dressed as animals. Another had a casino theme with various card game costumes. Imagination goes wild with extravagant costumes rivaling Disney's best creations.

Carnival ends with the burning of King Momo at midnight after the Farewell Parade. The life-sized, straw-filled effigy symbolizes infertility, sins and bad luck. His image isn't just burned; he's blown to smithereens. The explosion and fireworks rock the island.

Carnival is a mixture of a street party, theater, art, culture, history, cuisine and folklore. It gives you a glimpse into the soul of the people, and personal interactions that live in your memory long after the suntan fades.

Check out Curacao's cultural festivals and events.