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Curaçao has a full calendar of festivities that delight local residents as well as visitors. Major holidays, such as Carnival and Christmas, spread a decidedly festive atmosphere over the entire Island. Banks and other businesses are decked out with streamers, balloons and other decorations befitting the occasion. |
Public holidays 2007
January 01 New Year's Day (official holiday)
After the year ends with a big bang, the first day of the new year is traditionally a time for family gatherings.
January - March
Carnival
During these eight weeks Curaçao is turned into one big melting pot of people having fun on and off the streets. It all culminates in the Gran March and is finished off with the Farewell Grand Parade. For more detailed information, visit the Calendar of Events.
February - April Kite season
February 21 Ash Wednesday starts off Lent
April 06 Good Friday (official holiday)
Mainly Catholics celebrate this official holiday. An official holiday on this largely Catholic island and the beginning of a weeklong spring break for schools. Grocery stores and markets do a record sale in fresh and salted fish on the previous days.
April 08 Easter Sunday (official holiday)
Local children are decked out in their spring finery for the traditional first communion celebrations, which are held between this day and Ascension Day (May).
April 09 Easter Monday (official holiday)
Parade through the streets of Otrobanda, symbolizing the "the Harvest feast", features all the folkloric groups on the island.
April 30 Queen's birthday (official holiday)
Island wide celebrations with a festive atmosphere focusing in Down Town Punda.
May 01 Labor Day (official holiday)
An official holiday when government and labor union organize marches and other activities.
May 13 Mother's day
May 17 Ascension day (official holiday)
May 30 1969 commemoration
June 17 Father's day
July 02 Curaçao Flag day (official holiday)
Celebrated with official ceremonies and cultural events at Plaza Brion and the Village of Barber
source: www.curacao.com
