Carnival

Aruba's biggest bash incorporates local traditions with those of Venezuela, Brazil, Holland, and North America. Trinidadians who came to work at the oil refinery in the 1940s introduced Carnival to the island, so it’s only fitting that the new Carnival Village, Workshop and Museum was built in San Nicolas, where it all began. Though the town they call Sunrise City has always been the location for Carnival’s Jouvert Morning Jump-Up (also called the Pajama Party, since it begins at 4 am and many people come straight from bed), most of the festivities have been held in Oranjestad over the years. Now the monthlong celebration swings more between the two towns with pageants, parades, musical competitions, ceremonies, and gala concerts in both. But the Grand Parade held on the Sunday before Ash Wednesday still takes over all of downtown Oranjestad with thousands dancing in the streets and viewing the floats, costumes, and bands. All events end on Shrove Tuesday: at midnight an effigy of King Momo (traditionally depicted as a fat man) is burned, indicating the end of joy and the beginning of Lenten penitence. You can get a taste of the carnival spirit every Thursday night in San Nicolas with the Carubbian Festival held year-round.