Join us in the heart of the Caribbean to celebrate one of Aruba’s most significant national holidays—National Anthem and Flag Day. Commemorated every year on March 18th, this special day marks a pivotal moment in Aruba’s history, celebrating the adoption of both the national flag and the anthem, symbols of our island’s identity and autonomy.
A Journey Through History
The story of National Anthem and Flag Day dates back to 1976, a time of burgeoning national consciousness and desire for identity in Aruba. The island’s flag and anthem were both adopted on March 18th of that year, during a period of significant political change and a growing movement towards autonomy within the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
The Aruban flag consists of four colors: blue, representing the sea that surrounds us; yellow, for the abundance of sun and our island’s golden heart; red, symbolizing the love and blood of our people; and white, for the pristine beaches and the purity of our aspirations. At the flag’s heart lies a red star, encased in a white outline, symbolizing Aruba itself, a gem in the Caribbean Sea. The flag’s design embodies the spirit and resilience of the Aruban people.
The national anthem, “Aruba Dushi Tera” (Sweet Land Aruba), composed by Padu del Caribe with lyrics by Juan Chabaya Lampe, is a heartfelt tribute to the island’s natural beauty, its heritage, and the unwavering spirit of its people. It serves as a reminder of our shared history and hopes for the future.
A Celebration of Culture and Unity
Visitors to Aruba on March 18th will have the unique opportunity to experience the island’s culture at its fullest. The day is filled with festivities that include parades, cultural performances, music, dance, and traditional Aruban cuisine. It’s a day when the entire island comes together to reflect on our past, celebrate our present, and look forward to our future.
As part of the celebrations, tourists are encouraged to wear our exclusive Aruba-branded T-shirts available for purchase through the Aruba Tourist Channel. These T-shirts, emblazoned with the iconic Aruba logo, are not just stylish; they’re a symbol of your connection to the island and its people. For a limited time, we’re offering these T-shirts at a special price, with shipping options that bring a piece of Aruba directly to your doorstep.
Celebrate with us and immerse yourself in the rich history, vibrant culture, and enduring spirit of the Aruban people. The National Anthem and Flag Day is not just a day of reflection; it’s a day of unity, joy, and pride.
