3 Best Bars in Willemstad, Curaçao

As the name suggests, the décor here is a hodgepodge of paraphernalia with no rhyme or reason but a lot of creativity. Locals and visitors alike flock here for an unparalleled offbeat atmosphere, super signature cocktails, great happy hours, and live-music every Thursday. This venue also serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Salsa dancing is also big here.

This Thursday-night Punda festival takes place in the area around the Queen Emma Bridge, as well as nearby backstreets, alleys, and the Gomezplein square. Happy-hour celebrations begin as early as 4 pm in the resident bars, but things really kick into high gear around 6 pm, when musicians, dancers, arts-and-crafts kiosks, food stalls, and pop-up bars transform the entire neighborhood into a fabulous alfresco party. Stores in the area also stay open late. The magical evening culminates at around 8 pm, with a fireworks display over the harbor.

Bars, restaurants, and trendy shops line the entire courtyard interior of the old fort and Renaissance Mall, and many business owners hire live bands to entertain guests alfresco on the Rif Fort central stage. The ever-lively complex also hosts many special events throughout the year.