Public Holidays & Major Events in Curacao

Public holidays and annual events play an important role in Curacao’s cultural identity. They offer visitors a chance to experience the island’s vibrant celebrations, colorful traditions, and lively festivals. From Carnival and King’s Day to film festivals and fireworks, Curacao’s calendar is filled with moments worth discovering.

Below you’ll find an overview of all public holidays and major island events in Curacao, including cultural festivals, sports events, and seasonal celebrations.

January

New Year’s Day - January 1
The year begins with lively celebrations across Curacao. Many locals and visitors join the UNOX New Year’s Splash at Zanzibar, a refreshing sea plunge that marks the start of a new year in true island style.

Fuikdag - First Sunday of the year
A unique Curacao tradition. Fuikdag is an unorganized but massively popular boat party in Fuik Bay on the first Sunday of the year. Hundreds of boats gather for music, drinks, and Caribbean vibes on the water.

Opening of Carnival Season
This month marks the official start of Carnival in Curacao, launching weeks of parades, music, and cultural events across the island.

Curacao Baseball Week
Curacao Baseball Week is organized yearly with one main reason: to bring the kids in Curacao closer to their baseball legends

February

Festival di Tumba - Early February
Local musicians compete to create the official Tumba song of the year. The winning piece becomes the soundtrack of Carnival. Expect lively performances and strong cultural pride.

Carnival
Carnival is one of the biggest, most colorful celebrations in Curacao. Street parades, costumes, brass bands, and dancing fill the island with a festive spirit. For visitors, it’s one of the most unforgettable cultural experiences in Curacao.

• Grand Carnival Parade - Gran Marcha

• Grand Farewell Parade - Marcha di Despedida

March

AT Curacao Invitational Golf Tournament - Mid to Late March
A prestigious golf event attracting both local and international players. The tournament offers a scenic setting and relaxed atmosphere perfect for sports enthusiasts visiting the island.

April

Good Friday - The Friday before Easter
A quiet and reflective public holiday in Curacao. Many businesses close, and families attend church services.

Easter
Families gather for traditional meals and beach outings, filling the island with a warm and festive atmosphere.

Harvest Festival Parade - Seu - Easter Monday
Seu is one of Curacao’s most important cultural celebrations. Dancers, musicians, and performers reenact the island’s agricultural traditions through colorful parades in Willemstad.

Curacao International Film Festival
A popular cultural event showcasing international films, Caribbean cinema, and creative storytelling. Screenings and workshops take place across Willemstad.

King’s Day - April 27
Curacao celebrates the Dutch King Willem-Alexander’s birthday with street markets, music, food, and plenty of orange decorations throughout Willemstad. Tip: Wear some Orange clothing or accesoires to fit in the vibe.

May

Labor Day - May 1
A public holiday honoring workers in Curacao. Many locals enjoy a relaxed day with family.

Ascension Day
A national holiday marked by church services and family gatherings. Beaches are popular spots for locals enjoying the day off.

June

Father’s Day - Third Sunday of June
Celebrated with family outings, special meals, and relaxing beach days across Curacao.

July

National Anthem and Flag Day - July 2
Known locally as Dia di Himno i Bandera, this cultural holiday celebrates Curacao’s national identity. The day includes ceremonies, music, and community events in Willemstad.

August

Curacao North Sea Jazz Festival - Around the Last Weekend of August
One of the biggest music events in the Caribbean. Top international artists perform across multiple stages, drawing visitors from around the world. Tickets often sell out quickly.

Kaya Kaya Street Festival - Late August or Early September

One of Curaçao’s beloved community-driven festivals, held in Otrobanda. Kaya Kaya transforms the streets with live music, art installations, murals, food stalls, and an authentic neighborhood atmosphere.

October

Independence Day - Dia di Pais Kòrsou - October 10
This major national holiday celebrates Curacao’s autonomous status within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Expect island-wide festivities, cultural presentations, and a strong sense of community pride.

Tip: Wear the national flag colors (Blue and Yellow) to fully immerse yourself in the local vibe.

November

KLM Curacao Marathon - Late November
This major running event attracts athletes from many countries. The marathon route showcases some of Curacao’s most beautiful coastal scenery, offering multiple routes including the 42K, 21K, 10K, and 5K run and walk distances.

Tip: This is a highly popular event, so reserve your ticket well in advance to secure your spot.

December

St. Nicholas Day - December 5
This major Dutch tradition begins several weeks before December 5 when St. Nicholas and his helpers arrive by boat. The celebrations feature parades and events, culminating on December 5, 'Pakjesavond' (Gift-giving Evening), with sweet holiday treats and the distribution of gifts.

Christmas Eve - December 24
A warm and festive night when many families attend church services or enjoy cozy dinners together.

Christmas Day - December 25
A public holiday celebrated with family meals, beach outings, and festive gatherings.

Boxing Day - December 26
A second Christmas celebration in Curacao, offering another day for families to relax and enjoy the season.

New Year’s Eve - December 31
Curacao ends the year with spectacular Pagara fireworks in the city center. Thousands of firecrackers crackle through the streets, creating an unforgettable atmosphere leading into midnight celebrations.

See our Event Page for up-to-date information for the period you visit and explore even more events like happy hours and live music.