Join the Celebration: Aruba Carnival Season 

People dancing during a parade during Aruba Carnival season

Escape to the Caribbean this winter with Blue Aruba Rentals and celebrate Aruba’s rich culture during Carnival Season. What began as a small street festival has evolved into a two-month celebration of Aruban culture full of parades, costumes, music, and dance. Plan your trip during January and February and join the festivities of our island’s most anticipated events. From the Jouvert Morning Pajama Party in San Nicolas to the Grand Parade in downtown Oranjestad, there are endless Carnival events to complement your winter vacation in Aruba!

Brief History of Carnival

Carnival is not a Caribbean invention; similar festivals have been celebrated throughout history, dating back to ancient Rome. Over time, Carnival evolved into a major cultural event celebrated throughout the world. Since the 1950s, Aruba has adopted this traditional festival, incorporating African and Indigenous influences.  Learn more about the history of Carnival in Aruba before your visit!

Signature Events

With two months of Carnival celebrations, there are dozens of events to add to your vacation itinerary. Check out the full 2025 schedule and read on to discover a few of the island’s top events:

  • Lighting Parade: Held in downtown Oranjestad, this is one of the most popular parades of the season, featuring thousands of tiny lights on costumes, road pieces, and floats. 
  • Children’s Parade: The largest children’s parade of Carnival, held in downtown Oranjestad.
  • Jouvert Morning Pajama Party: Late-night revelers abound in San Nicolas for the annual street party that continues through sunrise!
  • Grand Carnival Parade: The carnival season ends with a Grand Parade, starting in San Nicolas and continuing into Oranjestad.
  • Grand Carnival Parade in Oranjestad: The biggest celebration of the season, featuring music, floats, costumes, and decorations. 

Lodging for Aruba Carnival Season

Join the celebration and book your stay with Blue Aruba Rentals during the Aruba Carnival season. We offer luxury condo rentals at some of the best complexes on the island, near the Carnival celebrations in Oranjestad and Noord. From our Harbour House properties in downtown Aruba to our beachfront properties in Oceania, Blue, and Azure Beach Residences, we have lodging for everyone’s needs. Book with us today and experience the excitement of Carnival!

Aruba Holiday Shopping Guide

Gift bags on the beach with a starfish: Aruba shopping

The holiday season is the perfect time to experience Aruba’s warm white sandy beaches, tropical charm, and festive events. It’s also the perfect opportunity to find gifts from your holiday shopping list. Attend one of our holiday markets in December and embrace the festive cheer while shopping from dozens of local vendors. Or head to one of our boutiques and support our community by purchasing locally made candles, art, jewelry, and souvenirs. Book your stay with Blue Aruba Rentals and find unique gifts for your loved ones in the Caribbean: 

Holiday Markets

December is the most festive time of the year in Aruba. Visit one of our holiday markets and get in the Christmas spirit while shopping for unique gifts:

  • Shop for organic gifts in an open-air setting at the Cadushi Festival
  • Head to Aruba Made for the exclusive Christmas Shopping Nights in December, featuring arts, crafts, food, and drinks all made in Aruba!
  • Visit Hilton Caribbean Resort and find handmade gifts, souvenirs, arts, and crafts at their annual Christmas market.

Local Art Shopping

Purchase a piece of locally made Aruba art this holiday season from these shops:

  • Head to The Atelier for authentic Aruban paintings, jewelry, pottery, and candles from nine local artists. 
  • Visit My Gallery Aruba at the Renaissance Marketplace and shop for handmade art from 13 local artists.
  • Visit The Mask, discover the ancient practices of Mopa Mopa art, and purchase a one-of-a-kind mask. 

Souvenirs and Specialty Stores

Bring back a piece of Aruba for your loved ones at one of these souvenir shops:

  • Shop for locally grown and freshly processed aloe products at Royal Aruba Aloe Store.
  • Head to Coconuts and purchase clothing from Biba Dushi, a local brand sold exclusively at Coconuts, selling t-shirts, flip-flops, and caps. 
  • Find exquisite jewelry during your stay and purchase sea glass jewelry inspired by the shores of Aruba at Gloria Filiciana.
  • If you are staying at Harbour House, we recommend checking out the shops on the boardwalk. Visit Bula Surfshop for beach and surfing gear and Tangerine Aruba for handcrafted canvas bags and accessories.
  • Find clothing from your favorite fashion brands and designers at Renaissance Mall in Oranjestad.

Book an Aruba Holiday Getaway Today 

Book with Blue Aruba Rentals and stay near the island’s best shopping areas this holiday season. Find unique gifts and embrace the season’s splendor with Christmas festivals, lights, food, and live music. Find the perfect lodging for your stay with our collection of over 200 vacation rentals, ranging from studio condos to five-bedroom luxury villas. Enjoy all the comforts of home and take advantage of resort amenities like pools, tennis courts, fitness centers, and beach access. Book your Aruba holiday getaway today!