Celebrate Like Royalty: Experiencing King's Day in Aruba & Curaçao
Planning your late April getaway to beautiful Aruba or vibrant Curaçao?
Get ready for more than just sun-kissed beaches! April 27th marks King's Day, a jubilant national holiday celebrating the birthday of the Dutch King Willem-Alexander, and both our islands erupt in a sea of orange festivities, this year celebrated on Saturday, April 26!
As your local experts at Bocobay, we want to give you the inside scoop on how to make the most of this unique cultural experience. Expect lively street fairs, infectious music, delicious treats, and a vibrant atmosphere you won't soon forget.
A Taste of Royalty: What to Eat on King's Day
No Kings Day celebration is complete without indulging in some traditional Dutch treats! Keep an eye out for these must-try snacks:
Orange Tompouce: The undisputed star of the day! This rectangular puff pastry filled with creamy custard and topped with bright orange icing is an absolute must-try.
Stroopwafels: Two thin, crispy waffles sandwiched together with a sweet caramel syrup. Perfect for a quick and delicious bite.
Oliebollen: These deep-fried dough balls, often dusted with powdered sugar, are a classic Dutch treat, especially popular during festive occasions.
Dutch Beer: Quench your thirst with a refreshing Dutch beer, readily available at bars and celebrations. We had to give a nod to what is (arguably) the OG of Dutch breweries, Heineken.
Croquette: For a savory option, grab a "kroket" – a deep-fried breadcrumbed roll filled with a creamy ragout. Don’t forget to add Dutch mustard as a topping!
You'll find these delicious goodies at street fairs, local bakeries, and various food stalls throughout both islands.
Here's a fun fact:
A fun fact about the Dutch tompouce is that its notoriously flaky puff pastry layers and slippery cream filling make it quite a challenge to eat gracefully, leading to humorous discussions and even articles titled "How do you eat a tompouce?".
Where the Magic Happens: King's Day Hotspots
Aruba: A Whirlwind of Orange Fun
Oranjestad's Downtown Area: The heart of the celebration! Head to Wilhelmina Park for potential official events and explore the surrounding streets like Caya G.F. Betico Croes for the main street fair.
Plaza Cafe & Bingo Restaurant: These popular spots often host festive gatherings and embrace the King's Day spirit.
Renaissance Marketplace: A fantastic option for families, offering various activities and a lively atmosphere throughout the day.
Moomba Beach: If you're looking for a beach party vibe, head to Moomba Beach for music and celebrations by the sea.
Hoya (Evening): Don't miss THE King's Day party happening at Hoya to cap off your festive day! The Bocobay team will be celebrating there!
Island-Wide Sporting Events: Keep an eye out for various sporting events happening on King's Day, including runs and other competitions you can sign up for!
Curaçao: A Colorful Caribbean Celebration
Festival in Willemstad (Punda): The historic Punda district comes alive with a major festival, street parties, live music, and a bustling atmosphere. Don't forget to stroll along the iconic Handelskade.
Pietermaai District (Evening): As the day transitions into night, the trendy Pietermaai district becomes a vibrant hub with lively street parties, bars, and music.
Island-Wide Sporting Events: Just like Aruba, Curaçao often hosts sporting events like runs on King's Day, offering another way to engage in the festivities.
Join the Celebration with Bocobay!:
Staying in a Bocobay vacation rental puts you right in the heart of the action, offering a comfortable and convenient base to explore the King's Day festivities in both Aruba and Curaçao. So, pack your orange attire, prepare to immerse yourself in the local culture, indulge in delicious treats, and get ready for a truly unforgettable King's Day experience in the Dutch Caribbean!
We look forward to celebrating with you!
