Many people ask what the best time of year to visit Aruba is. Although an enthusiastic “Anytime!” is a valid answer, thanks to the perfect weather, Carnival season is an easy favorite. The history of Carnival in Aruba is an interesting one. Carnival has been celebrated in Aruba since the 1940’s.and is in the 6 weeks leading up to the Lenten season in the Catholic calendar, which is a time of fasting and penitence. It begins on New Year’s Day and ends on Ash Wednesday. Carnival is a time of great joy and celebration. Originally introduced to the island nation by British West Indian immigrants, the celebration has evolved over the decades to include many multi-cultural flavors.
The original history of Carnival started in the 1940’s and is based upon the Carnival in Trinidad. Known for its vibrant costumes, and wild festivities, the celebration is also widely known as “Bacchanal”. Bacchanal is loosely based upon the ancient Greek and Roman festivities celebrating the Gods of wine, vegetation and cheer. Arubans often mark these celebrations with great artistic expressions, similar to the way that the Greeks and Romans would write tragedies for theirs.
Carnival in Aruba has changed over the years and now has many elements from Holland, North America and even native Arubans. The celebration is marked with many grand parades and parties, known as “jump ups” and reaches its festive peak with the election of the “Queen”. It is an expressive mix of music, color, motion and merriment that is a real draw for tourists from around the globe. Vibrant colors, elaborate costumes and fireworks delight the eyes while music, laughter and merriment fill the ears. The history of Carnival in Aruba has grown over the years to make it one of the most raucous celebrations in the Caribbean today.
If you are looking for a great time of year to visit Aruba, you can’t go wrong in Carnival season. While much of the Northern Hemisphere is mired in the cold gloom of winter, Aruba is alive with warmth and color, and aglow in the happiness of celebration. As is the history of Carnival, you will be treated to near daily parades and parties, so opportunities to join in the celebration abound. Be sure to bring a camera and your dancing shoes, as you take to the streets with the locals in a true celebration of life, music and of course, wine.
