January 2009
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| January 1 |
New Year's Day (Official Holiday)
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| January 3 |
Official Opening of Carnival
Seven weeks of Carnival festivities begin with a full program of activities in Willemstad, highlighted by revelers in last years costumes dancing in the streets.
For more information, please call:
FU.DE.KA. (Fundashon pa Desaroyo Positivo di Karnaval), Tel: (599-9) 461-3352,
or visit our Website: www.curacaocarnival.info
or send an eMail: info@curacaocarnival.info
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| January 25 |
Registration for Tumba Contest 2009
The day all composers line up to submit their compostions for inclusion in the Tumba Contest. It's a lively get-together and the carnival revelers anxiously await the publications of long lists of participating bands and singers selected. Radio stations are on hand to interview the most popular singers and composers.
For more information, please visit: www.festivalditumba.com
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| January 30 |
Election of Teenagers' Carnival King & Queen
Curacao teens participate in their own parade.
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| January 31 |
Election of Carnival King, Queen & Joker (Adults)
The official Carnival representatives are elected. Held at WTC.
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February 2009
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| February 1-8 |
Art at Avila
Avila Chamber Music Celebration
Second Season - February 1-8, 2009
Anne-Marie McDermott, Artistic Director
Performing Artists:
Anne-Marie McDermott, piano
Lauren Skuce, soprano
Ida Kavafian, violin/viola
Lily Francis, violin/viola
Cathy Meng Robinson, violin
Keith Robinson, cello
Sunday, February 1, 11:00 a.m.
60-Year Anniversary Avila Hotel
La Belle Alliance
PIANO RECITAL
Anne-Marie McDermott
Haydn, Four Piano Sonatas
Thursday, February 5, 8:00 p.m.
GALA CONCERT
Central Bank Atrium, Smn Bolvar Plaza
Mozart, Concerto for Piano & Strings K.415
Gershwin, Lullaby for String Quartet
Songs for Soprano & Piano
Songs for Two Violins & Piano
Mendelssohn, Trio Op. 66 for Piano & Strings
Saturday, February 7, 5:00 p.m.
Afternoon Concert
The Governor's Palace, Fort Amsterdam
Dvork, Sonatina Op. 100 for Violin & Piano
Respighi, Il Tramonto, Lyric Poem
for Soprano & Strings
Gershwin, Preludes for Solo Piano
Beethoven, Quartet Op. 16 for Piano & Strings
Sunday, February 8, 11:00 a.m.
Coffee Concert
La Belle Alliance
Schubert, Rondo Brillante for Violin & Piano
Songs for Soprano & Piano
Brahms, Quintet Op. 34 for Piano & Strings
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| February 1 |
Election of Children's Carnival Queen, Prince & Pancho
Carnival
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| February 2-6 |
2009 Tumba Contest
The islands finest composers, musicians and singers compete in a unigue Curacao festival. The winning Tumba song will have the honor of being the Carnival Road March Song. Held at the festival Center.
For more information, please call:
FU.DE.KA. (Fundashon pa Desaroyo Positivo di Karnaval), Tel: (599-9) 461-3352,
or visit our Website: www.curacaocarnival.info
or send an eMail: info@curacaocarnival.info
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| February 8 |
Horse Parade
The horse parade is a special attraction for those who are drawn to nature and love to see the beautifully decked horses gracefully prancing in the streets with their riders dressed up to match the occasion.
All the riding schools and private horse owners participate to show off their animals and their skills.
For more information: www.curacaocarnival.info
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| February 14 |
Valentine's Day
For weeks in advance the event is announced and the shops outdo themselves in offering special bargains. The media, especially radio stations, have special programs and on the day itself there are shows during which romantic singers regale the many couples with their love songs. Restaurants and hotels compete in offering their clientele and guests a wide variety of romantic & culinary highlights.
Ask your restaurant or hotel about special romance packages.
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| February 15 |
Children's Carnival Parade
Toddlers up to 6th graders take to the streets of Willemstad for their own full-scale parade.
For more information: www.curacaocarnival.info
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| February 18 |
Carnival Feast for the Elderly
A special celebration for the elderly during Carnival Season.
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| February 20 |
Carnival Teen Parade
Curacao teens participate in their own parade.
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| February 21 |
Traditional "Midnight Ban Topa" in Otrobanda and Punda
Let's meet at a street fair. The streets are closed; there are bands, dancing, and vendors selling food and drink. Everyone joins in the festivities.
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| February 22 |
Gran Marcha - The Grand Parade
This "Grand Parade" is the highlight of Carnival Season with a thousand participants, costumes, floats, dance and music. A 10k route is lined with thousands of spectators.
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| February 23 |
Official Carnival Holiday / Children's and Teen's Farewell Parade
AOn this official holiday the kids have the chance to show off their Carnival finery one last time.
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| February 24 |
Grand Farewell Parade
The final parade marks the end of the Carnival season. An evening parade with lights and floats. As legend has it, the midnight burning of the King Momo effigy will please the gods.
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| February 25 |
Ash Wednesday
Beginning of Catholic Lent
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| February 28 |
Award Ceremony Grand, Teen & Horse Parade
Closing Party and Presentation of Awards
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March 2009
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| March 1 |
Award Ceremony Children's Parade
Awards ceremony for the participants of the children's parade.
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| March 1-April 19 |
International Kite Season
The Curacao International Kite Season kicks off with workshops and small kite-flying competitions in preparation for the Curacao International Kite Festival.
March 1st: Opening Curaao Kite Season
April 6 - 19th: Kite Exposition
April 17, 18, 19th: The Curacao International Kite Festival 2009
Contact info: info@curacaokites.com
A night-fly and other exciting activities for kite fanatics lead up to the Curacao International Cup Kite Competition.
For more detailed information, please visit our website: www.curacaokites.com
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| March 6-7 |
Conference 'About Women and Opportunity'
This is a conference about opportunities for women and how women are programmed to deal with them.
The aim is learn how to recognize opportunities, to use and benefit from great ones and to think about how to deal with opportunities in all aspects life.
For more detailed information, please visit the website: www.aboutwomenconference.com
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| March 18-22 |
The McDermott Trio with Paul Neubauer at Avila
Artistic Director: Paul Neubauer, viola
Anne-Marie McDermott, piano
Kerry McDermott, violin
Maureen McDermott, cello
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| March 23-29 |
CUBOA: (Curacao Bowling Association)
Organizes a special "Regional Bowling" event with the participation of many islands, like the Dominican Republic, Bahamas, Trinidad & Tobago, Grenada, Jamaica, Aruba, and Barbados.
Contact: Mr. Samir Daou, Phone: +(5999) 560-1569 or Mr. Jorge Maia, Phone: +(5999) 510-5569
E-mail: samir@cuboa.com, Jorge@cuboa.com
Website: www.cuboa.com
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April 2009
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| April 3-5 |
43rd Annual International Blue Marlin Release
The Annual International Release Blue Marlin Tournament is held in the waters surrounding Curacao. It is oriented towards the conservation of the species, with individual and team competition.
The Curacao Yacht Club was founded over 44 years ago and has grown to attract over 600 members and accommodates over 50 yachts as well as over 50 smaller boats. Visiting yachts are welcome. The club can accommodate yachts over 100 feet in length.
For more detailed information, please visit: www.curacaoyachtclub.com or contact Billy Jonckheer at the Curacao Yacht Club at
tel: (599-9) 767-4627, (599-9) 511-9461
email: info@curacaoyachtclub.com
VHF channel 68
Waypoints: 12.03.500 N / 068.51.200 W
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| April 10 |
Good Friday (Official Holiday)
Catholic holiday and beginning of Spring break for schools.
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| April 12 |
Easter Sunday
Easter, the greatest feast day in the Christian calendar, celebrates the Resurrection of Jesus Christ.
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| April 13 |
Easter Monday: Harvest Parade (Official Holiday)
Parade through the streets of Otrobanda. Official holiday.
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| April 29 |
Queen's Birthday (Official Holiday)
Traditional two-day regatta organized by the picturesque fishing village of Boca Sami. Enjoy local food, live music and lots of fun. Second day May 1st.
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| April 30 |
Queen's Birthday (Official Holiday)
Island wide celebrations with a festive atmosphere focusing in Down Town Punda
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| April 30-May 1 |
International Food & Family Festival
More than 50 stands create a banquet of international and local cuisine and native beverages. Live entertainment is highlighted by local and international dance groups, fashion shows, bands, DJs, and Children playgrounds. Location Rust & Burgh.
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May 2009
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| May 1 |
Labor Day (Official Holiday)
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| May 11 |
Mother's Day
The second Sunday of May is celebrated with lots of gifts and flowers, and sales at island stores. Special events are organized all over the island and at many hotels.
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| May 21 |
Ascension Day (Official Holiday)
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| May 23-30 |
Curacao Dive Festival
Underwater digital photography and fish identification seminars, technical dive presentation, dive computer clinics and an underwater treasure hunt. This is a fun event for both divers and non-divers! (Enjoy free transportation to event sites.)
For more detailed information, please visit:www.curacaodive.com
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| May 30 |
Curacao Jazz Festival
After missing out for one year, the Jazz Festival came back at a new location with a dance floor: Landhuis Brakkeput Mei Mei.
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| May 30 |
International Caribbean Gospel Festival
After missing out for one year, the Jazz Festival came back at a new location with a dance floor: Landhuis Brakkeput Mei Mei.
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June 2009
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| June 15 |
Father's Day
Like Mother's Day, the third Sunday of June is celebrated with shopping, shows and musical tributes to Dad. Look for special events all over the island and at many hotels.
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| June 24-July 1 |
African Diaspora Film festival
The African Diaspora Film Festival (ADFF) presents an eclectic mix of foreign, urban, classic and independent films that focus on the Global Black Experience. ADFF opens a window into the diversity of experiences and cultures in Africa and its Diaspora.
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July 2009
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| July 2 |
Curacao Flag Day (Official Holiday)
Official holiday and ceremonies.
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| July 26 |
Curacao Day
Commemoration of the discovery of Curaçao by Alonzo de Ojeda in 1499. Folkloric activities in the inner city and countryside.
Contact: Kas di Kultura
Tel. (599-9) 461-7355
E-mail: kasdikultura@curinfo.an
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August 2009
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| August 2-9 |
2009 Curacao Salsa Tour
Salsa Dance Festival
The Curacao Salsa Tour office is located in the Howard Johnson Plaza Hotel. Please contact the office for questions you may have about parties, workshops, instructors, transportation etc.
Tel: (5999) 4627800.
E-mail:
info@curacaosalsatour.com
or visit our Website: www.curacaosalsatour.com
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| August 15-November 15 |
Culture, Cuisine and Heritage Fest 2009
Events celebrating the diversity of the Dutch Caribbean island of Curacao. Learn more about the festival, here.
For more information, please contact the Curacao Tourist Board:
Tel. 461-7355/461-7357
E-mail: kasdikultura@curinfo.an
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| August 17 |
Slave Uprising Commemoration
The 1795 slave uprising, the most important in Curacao's history, is remembered with musical and cultural events at the Rif Waterfront and at Landhuis Kenepa at the western part of the island.
Contact: Fundashon Parke Nashonal: Mr. Gibi Basilio
Tel:(599-9) 563-0358
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September 2009
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| September 1-30 |
Culture, Cuisine and Heritage Fest 2009
Celebrating the diversity of the Dutch Caribbean island of Curaçao. Learn more about the festival, here.
For more information, please contact the Curacao Tourist Board:
Tel. 461-7355/461-7357
E-mail: kasdikultura@curinfo.an
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| September 2009-June 2010 TBA |
Clipper 'Round The World
Exact Dates: TBA
The Challenge of a lifetime. The Clipper 09-10 Round the World Yacht Race. Recruiting Now.
Curacao Tourist Board (011-599-9) 434-8200
For more detailed information, please visit: www.clipperroundtheworld.com
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| September 13-21 |
Culture Week
This culture awareness week concentrates on all kinds of manifestations of the local culture. The Department of Culture will organize a great many activities in the schools, community centers, and via the media. There will be many seminars on all cultural aspects and initiatives are encouraged. The dominant theme is to keep the local culture alive and to maintain the norms and values that have been passed on to this generation.
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| September 19 |
Rosh Hashanah
Jewish New Year. Jewish owned shops and banks are closed. Contact: Mikve Israel-Emanuel at: Tel. (599-9) 461-1067
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| September 21-28 |
World Tourism Day
Contact: Curacao Tourist Board (599-9)434-8200
E-mail: ctdbcur@ctdb.net
Website:
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| September 27 |
Tourism Week
The purpose of this week's activities is to drive home the idea that tourism is the most important pillar of our economy. Throughout this week, schools, community centers, and public offices will be visited to emphasize the importance of tourist industry. There will be many activities and excursions to tourist attractions, culminating in the so-called "Kaya Liber" (Traffic Free Road) event at Nieuwe Haven, where both the tourists and local population can meet and enjoy the varied products Curacao has to offer.
Contact: Curacao Tourist Board (599-9)434-8200
E-mail: ctdbcur@ctdb.net
Website:
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| September 27 |
Yom Kippur
Jewish day of atonement. Jewish owned shops and banks are closed.
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October 2009
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| October 4 |
Banda Bou Day
A day of celebrations, folkloric shows and local food in Banda Bou region, located in the scenic western end of Curacao.
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| October 1 - 31 |
Culture, Cuisine and Heritage Fest 2009
Celebrating the diversity of the Dutch Caribbean island of Curacao. Learn more about the festival, here.
For more information, please contact the Curacao Tourist Board:
Tel. 461-7355/461-7357
E-mail: kasdikultura@curinfo.an
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| October 21 |
Antillean Day (Official Holiday)
An official holiday and celebration of the five islands of the Netherland Antilles.
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November 2009
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| November 7 |
Amstel Curacao Race
World class cycling excitement with Curacao's gorgeous tropical scenery as backdrop. Hobby cyclists get the chance to ride together with the international professional teams. Additional events coordinated throughout the week prior to the race. Arrive October 30th and enjoy a week of beach vollyball, clinics, parties, BBQs and more. Please visit the site for full details, team info and schedules: www.amstelcuracaorace.com.
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| November 6-8 |
Heineken Regatta Curacao
November 7, 8, 9 2009. A surprisingly different Regatta with a unique location. All events and races will be in and around the harbor and bay of historic Willemstad. Day and night entertainment, live concerts and shows on Brion Plaza, Annabaai and Regata Village located at the Kleine Werf.
Visit www.heinekenregattacuracao.com for details.
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| November 27-30 |
Christmas Showcase 2009
Held at the World Trade Center Curacao.
Tradeshow featuring new products for Christmas and New Year season. A continuous fashion show will also be presented with international and local models
For more information please call Mrs. Bakhuis or Kim Schmit.
Tel. (599-9) 463-6178
Website: www.destination-curacao.com
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December 2009
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| December 5 |
St. Nicholas Day
On St. Nicholas Eve all children place a bucket of water and a shoe filled with hay for St. Nicholas' big white horse. If they have been good all year, they will wake to find their shoes filled with gifts. Those who haven't are afraid a goblin called " Zwarte Piet"(Black Peter) will carry them back to Spain in a sack.
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| December 6 |
Half Marathon & 10 Kilometer Run
The roadrunners club of Curaao is sponsoring this exciting new event. A marathon and 10 km run are open to all. For more information contact Road Runners Club of Curaao.
Roadrunners Club Curaao
Website: www.rrck.com
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| December 12-19 |
Hanukkah
Hanukkah, the Jewish Festival of Lights, starts on the 25th day of the Jewish calendar month of Kislev and lasts for eight days and nights.
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| December 15 |
Kingdom Day (Official Holiday)
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| December 25 |
Christmas Day (Official Holiday)
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| December 31 |
New Year's Eve (Official Holiday)
Fireworks displays. Locals gather at Plaza Brion where an evening of cultural activities is capped by midnight blessing by the Bishop.
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| Gay Friendly Venues and Events |
All year 'round.
Curacao is truly a diverse and multi-cultural island which takes pride
in promoting itself as a gay friendly destination. Gay travelers can check out the following list of locations specifically offering gay-friendly parties and events at venues around the island:
Lyric's Gay Cafe
Thursdays/Fridays: 10:00PM - 3:00AM
Saturdays: 10:00PM - 4:00AM
Punda (Willemstad, Waterfort Arches)
Cafe De Heeren
Thursdays Happy Hour: 6.00PM - 10.00PM
Zuikertuintje
Cinco Curacao
Thursdays Happy Hour: 10.00PM - 11:30PM
Parera (near the Marine base)
TuTu Tango Bar
Fridays Happy Hour: 11.00PM - 4.00AM
Punda (Willemstad, near the Movies Curaçao)
Zanta Beach Bar
Fridays Happy Hour: 11.00PM - 4.00AM
Bapor Kibra (near Breezes Curaçao Resort)
Mambo Beach
Saturdays Open: 10:00PM - 4:00AM
Bapor Kibra (Seaquarium area)
Wet and Wild Beach Club
Sundays Happy Hour: 5.00PM - 11.00PM
Bapor Kibra
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