Oranjestad, Aruba — As 2025 draws to a close, Aruba is preparing to host one of the most memorable New Year’s Eve experiences in its history. This December 31, the Government of Aruba, in collaboration with local businesses and cultural partners, is presenting a historic Pagara celebration as the centerpiece of the island’s year-end festivities, a vibrant event designed to unite residents and visitors alike in a unique, culturally rich farewell to the year.
A Celebration Rooted in Tradition
The Pagara, a long string of firecrackers traditionally lit on New Year’s Eve Day, has been a beloved custom in Aruba for generations. Locally, lighting a Pagara symbolizes letting go of the past year’s challenges and welcoming prosperity and good fortune for the year ahead. Originally embraced by local businesses to celebrate success and ward off negative energy, the tradition has grown into a communal spectacle that spills into neighborhoods and public spaces across the island.
This year’s event elevates the tradition to a new scale, with the Government of Aruba orchestrating a specially designated route through central Oranjestad for a coordinated Pagara lighting. The firecracker display will stretch from the Doña Clara building, continue along Wilhelminastraat and Columbusstraat, pass Plaza Nicky Habibe, and culminate at Plaza Daniel Leo.
“Ban Bek Caya”: A New Chapter in Aruba’s Festive Calendar
Branded as “Ban Bek Caya,” this celebration transforms the historic Pagara into a daytime cultural experience enhanced by music, performance, and community participation. The festivities start in the early afternoon on December 31, making it accessible to families, visitors, and culture seekers.
At Plaza Daniel Leo, visitors can enjoy live performances from celebrated local artists, including Aruba’s “King of Dande,” Robert Maduro, and the “Queen of Dande,” Mariela Croes, as well as performances by the folk group Alma Folklorico. These musical elements amplify the festive atmosphere and offer travelers a deeper connection to authentic Aruban rhythms and traditions.
What Visitors Can Expect
From a tourism perspective, this year’s Pagara celebration offers several compelling reasons to plan a holiday stay in Aruba:
Cultural Immersion:
The coordinated Pagara route gives visitors a chance to witness and participate in a distinctive Aruban New Year tradition, experiencing how locals celebrate community and cultural heritage.
Daytime Festivities:
Unlike many New Year’s events that peak at midnight, Ban Bek Caya brings the party to the daytime hours, making it ideal for travelers of all ages. With performances and street energy kicking in as early as 2 p.m., it’s a celebration that fits both family travel and cultural exploration.
Safe and Central Setting:
Held in the heart of Oranjestad, the event is walkable from many major hotels and attractions, allowing visitors to explore nearby shopping, dining, and entertainment before and after the main display.
A Unique New Year’s Experience
While Aruba is known for its pristine beaches, warm hospitality, and year-round sunshine, the annual Pagara adds a distinct cultural rhythm to the island’s calendar. For travelers, it’s an opportunity to engage with local customs that blend festivity and symbolism, a perfect complement to Aruba’s world-class vacation experience.
Whether you’re a returning visitor or planning your first trip, Aruba’s government-backed Pagara celebration provides a memorable way to say goodbye to 2025 and welcome 2026, setting a joyful tone for the year ahead.
