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Curaçao Carnival
An Unmissable Caribbean Celebration
Curaçao knows how to throw a party, and few can rival Carnival, a six-week tradition that celebrates the island's vibrant energy and traditions. The parades and colorful events blend music, dance, culture, and community.
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Here are our picks for
6 Key Events that make Carnival so special
as well as why you won’t want to miss them!
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Tumba Festival
February 3–7
The Tumba Festival is one of Curaçao's most iconic music events. It sees the Carnival season kick off with electrifying performances, entertaining lyrics, and the infectious rhythms of Tumba: a genre of music formed by Curaçao’s cultural heritage. At the Tumba Festival, local artists will take the stage to compete for the coveted title of Rei di Tumba (which translates to the king of Tumba). The winning song always becomes the official Carnival anthem for that year. Tumba is the best way to get into the spirit of Carnival, and get ready for weeks of festivities.
Pro tip: Don’t forget to join the locals on the dance floor!
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Horses Parade
February 16
One of the sometimes overlooked days in Carnival season is the Horses Parade. However, what it might lack in music, it more than makes up for with incredible displays and bright colours. Riders and their horses, dressed in stunning Carnival attire, turn the streets of Willemstad into a scene straight out of a storybook. It’s an event that is perfect for animal lovers and people who might want a quieter – yet equally festive – Carnival experience.
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Youth Parade
February 23
This lively parade is dedicated to children and young performers.
Local schools and youth groups participate with colourful costumes and cheerful energy. It’s a family-friendly event, and a glimpse into the future of Carnival traditions.
Pro tip: Bring your camera - highly talented kids often steal the show!
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Teen Parade
February 28
The Teen Carnival Parade is an exciting nighttime event. As the name suggests, teenagers take center stage with energetic dances and modern music. This parade is special for showcasing the creativity and enthusiasm of Curaçao's youth. For this reason, it has its own unique flair compared to other parades.
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Gran Marcha
(The Grand Carnival Parade)
March 2
This is Carnival at its peak! The Gran Marcha is the island's main and largest parade, featuring vibrant costumes, intricately designed floats, and a seemingly endless stream of music. Make sure you get there early for a good spot, because thousands of people line the streets of Willemstad to witness this daytime parade. If you only see one event, make it this one — it’s the heartbeat of Carnival.
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Farewell Parade
March 4
The Main Farewell Parade marks the grand finale to Carnival. Instead of during the day, this is a nighttime parade – but it still has the vibrancy of the Gran Marcha. The evening culminates in the burning of Rei Momo, a symbolic act that officially signifies the end of the celebrations.
