Practical info & activities for tourists
The holidays in Curaçao are a unique combination of Caribbean coziness, fireworks and large-scale celebrations. Sun, sea and an exuberant atmosphere make this period extra special.
Christmas on Curacao (December 24, 25 and 26)
Christmas is celebrated in Curaçao not only on December 24 and 25, but also on December 26. These are official holidays. Many stores and offices are closed or have modified opening hours.
An important part of Christmas on Curaçao are the many church services. On Christmas Eve and both Christmas days services are held all over the island, often atmospheric and musical, sometimes even in the open air. Tourists are also welcome and services are regularly held in multiple languages.
Punda and Pietermaai are especially lively in the evening. Here small-scale Christmas parties take place with music, food and often pagara fireworks, symbolically “popping clean” the old year. Restaurants serve special Christmas menus and live music is no exception.
New Year’s Eve: fireworks and big parties
New Year’s Eve is one of the most impressive days of the year. During the day you can hear pagaras everywhere and in the evening the party erupts. In Willemstad, the fireworks display above the Handelskade is a highlight.
A unique feature of Curaçao is that New Year’s Eve is celebrated twice:
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- At 7 p.m. there is the Dutch New Year’s Eve, complete with fireworks and festivities.
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- At 00:00 follows the Curaçao New Year’s Eve, again with fireworks and plenty of pagaras.
The biggest event begins every year at 2 p.m. in Pietermaai with the island’s longest pagara followed by a huge street party including various stages, bars and DJs.
In addition, beach clubs and resorts are known for their large New Year’s Eve parties. Many of these events are graced by well-known artists and DJs from the Netherlands, creating a seaside festival atmosphere. Tickets often sell out well in advance.
New Year’s dive at Zanzibar Beach
For those who want to start the new year fresh, the New Year’s dive at Zanzibar on Jan Thiel is a regular tradition. On the morning of January 1, locals and tourists alike gather on the beach to enter the sea together.
Helpful tips for tourists
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- Book early: Restaurants, parties and beach clubs fill up fast
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- Car rental: High season = limited availability
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- Traffic: Bear in mind crowds and fireworks on Dec. 31
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- Clothing: Festive but summery – it stays warm
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- Socials Media: check here for the latest updates on events and parties. Throughout December there is a lot going on. especially the week between Christmas and New Year’s Eve.
Conclusion
Christmas and New Year’s Eve in Curaçao are lively, warm and festive. From intimate Christmas celebrations to large-scale beach parties with international allure. With a little planning, you will experience an unforgettable New Year’s Eve on the island.
Want to explore the island carefree during Christmas and New Year’s Eve? With a rental car of Cura Explore you are assured of reliable transportation, even in the busy high season. So you can enjoy all the activities that Curacao has to offer without stress.
