There's plenty going on in Aruba no matter what time of year you visit, so it's that much sweeter when you can plan your visit to coincide with one of the island's many great cultural events. Here's my picks for the best annual Aruba events, festivals, concerts, and more.
Aruba Carnival Celebration
© Aruba Tourism Authority
Each Caribbean Carnival celebration is unique, and Aruba's exhibits both Dutch influences and the culture of the Antilles, featuring parades in San Nicolas and Orenjestad highlighted by tumba and calypso music, a balloon parade, the crowning of a Carnival king and queen, a Heineken drinking contest, and the burning of King Momo.
Aruba Hi-Winds Windsurfing Championships
© Aruba Tourism Authority
Windsurfers and kiteboarders from around the world flock to Aruba in June for one of the sports' premiere events, the annual Aruba Hi-winds competition. Taking advantage of Aruba's summer trade winds, the amateur competition is held at the Fishermans' Huts.
Aruba Piano Festival
© Aruba Cas di Cultura
Soca, reggae and even jazz have long been associated with the Caribbean, but the organizers of the annual Aruba Piano Festival want you to know that there's a place in the islands for chamber music, too. The week-long festival includes recitals, classes and competitions -- some free, some for a fee -- mostly at the Cas di Cultura but also in some smaller venues, as well.
