Carnival Monday 2025
Date: March 3, 2025 (Monday)
Country: Curaçao Public Holidays
Description
Carnival Monday in Curaçao is a public holiday that is part of the island wide Carnival season. It is a day when people celebrate their culture, music, and strong community ties before the start of Lent.
It takes place on the Monday just before Ash Wednesday. That means the date changes every year because it depends on the date of Easter. Usually Carnival Monday falls in February or March.
The holiday means more than just a day off. It is a chance for the whole island to express identity and pride in a shared history. Families, friends, and neighbors come together to mark their common roots.
Carnival Monday is significant because it helps keep cultural traditions alive across generations. Schools and businesses often close or join the events so the community can celebrate and remember where they come from.
For many people in Curaçao this day strengthens social bonds and reminds everyone of unity. It connects the present with the past and highlights the island s diverse heritage.
Traditions
On Carnival Monday people wake early to join loud street parades. Colorful floats roll slowly while dancers in bright kostuums move to tumba and brass band music. Crowds sing, clap, and throw confetti and streamers.
Groups known as comparsas perform choreographed dances and short comic skits. Children wear masks and painted faces. Adults often dress in outrageous outfits to tease friends and playfully act out mock arrests or pranks.
Food stalls sell local favorites like pastechi, pan bati, fried plantains and keshi yena. Sweet treats and cold drinks are passed around as people celebrate together. Musicians and drummers keep the party going until late into the night.
Travel Tips
Many shops, banks and some restaurants close or have short hours on Carnival Monday. Expect road closures, busy streets and limited taxis. Book transport and tours early, carry ID and cash, and leave extra time for moving around the island.
Enjoy official parades and family events but stay aware of crowds. Keep valuables safe, drink water, wear sun protection and comfortable shoes. Ask hotel staff for event maps and safety tips to make the day fun and meaningful.