Arts & Culture
CENTURIES OF CURAÇAO FLAIR
Curaçao isn’t just a destination you visit, but one you immerse yourself in. Beyond its beauty, lies a getaway full of history, culture, authenticity, and one-of-a-kind experiences.
Music & Dance
Curaçao has always moved to its own beat with an array of traditional music styles.
Tambú, also known as “Curaçao blues” came to be a musical outlet for those who were enslaved to express their sorrow. Today, it is popular throughout the island especially to the younger generations with powerful lyrics, clapping, and African dancing. Visitors can learn more at the Tambu Museum.
Tumba, is a music style of African origin that is now influenced by merengue, Afro-Caribbean, and Latin jazz rhythms. The word derives from the Bantu and Madinka word for drum.
Seu, which means “the sky” in Creole is the musical sound that derived from the harvest. In the 18th century, plantation workers would hold a ceremony playing their drums with the belief that it would attract the rain along with a dance called the “wapa” to symbolize planting and harvesting. Now, it is the sound of Curaçao’s annual Seu Harvest Festival.
Ka’I Orgel, a cylinder piano, is one of Curaçao’s traditional instruments. Guests can visit the Ka’I Orgel Museum for a firsthand to see how the instrument is built, learn about Serapio Pinedo, a self-made composer who has created 63 of his own, and enjoy the music.
Festivals & Events
Rooted in endless European-Caribbean flair, the island has no choice but to celebrate often.
Carnival is the biggest cultural event of the year lasting two months and ending with a grand parade. Visitors can expect a festive mix of music, theatre, street parties, art, culture, history, and folklore. A perfect intro to Curaçao.
Curaçao North Sea Jazz festival is another major island event that spans three days and welcomes some of the biggest stars in music to the island.
The Kaya Kaya Street Festival is an annual celebration filled with music, food, and art as well as a shared opportunity to support local vendors and artists, create new economic opportunities, and continue to uplift Curaçao’s Otrobanda district.
The exciting events on island are nearly endless from the annual Seu Harvest Festival to Punda Vibes each Thursday, there is so much to experience and enjoy.
Check out our Events Calendar to see more of what’s coming up.
Arts, Crafts & Community
It is no secret that Curaçao is known for its vibrant color and vibe, and this extends to its amazing art scene. At any given moment, guests can stumble upon one of the island’s iconic murals or pose alongside unique art installations.
Those ready to take on a full day of art and culture can make their way to spots like Gallery Alma Blou, the oldest and largest gallery on island or the lively Kura Hulanda Village, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with stores, restaurants, bars, and a museum. Plasa Nobo is another prime spot to shop for souvenirs, enjoy local food and drink, and experience the community.
While there are so many galleries and artsy shops, one of the best ways to immerse oneself into the art itself is at The Cathedral of Thorns. This giant labyrinth is made entirely of thorns and filled with art, a captivating experience to say the least.
Browse our Arts & Culture Page to explore more.
FAQ
Have a few questions about the vibrant culture here in Curaçao? Whether you want to pick up on a few phrases in the native language, find out about events like Curaçao Carnival and North Sea Jazz Festival, learn about some of the cultural norms you’ll see around, or when attractions and businesses open on island – we have the answers. There is so much to learn and enjoy when it comes to Curacao’s culture. Get even more familiar right here on our FAQ Page.
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