Christmas is a special day that brings gifts, delectable homemade food, and cherished family time. In idyllic places like the Aruba, the soothing sound of waves lapping on the shore and the squawks of seagulls flying into the sunset often enhance the experience. For those who cannot get enough of the holiday magic, the celebration continues into the 26th, with Boxing Day in Aruba offering a unique blend of local traditions and mesmerizing natural passages.
The holiday season in Aruba: what do locals eat for Christmas?
Boxing Day in Aruba: Do islanders take part in this celebration?
Unlike English-speaking countries like the United States, Boxing Day in Aruba is a public holiday. Credits: ronstik/Pixabay
Historians have not fully clarified the origins of Boxing Day. While some experts claim that the holiday originated in the Middle Ages, others argue that it became established in the mid-19th century. One thing is certain: it is a British custom. Upper-class families would give boxes filled with savory foods, sweets, and items they no longer needed to their servants, merchants, or people of lower means. National Geographic links its altruistic nature to the Feast of Saint Stephen, which also happens to fall on December 26.
Over time, Boxing Day became a holiday associated with shopping. That is why, in countries that are part of the Commonwealth, like Canada and Australia, people take advantage of the discounts offered by stores to get the most out of the Christmas season. Although it is not a public festivity per se in the United States, many see it as a time to catch up on their favorite sports.
Boxing Day in Aruba, however, is a different story. It is part of the official holiday calendar, and the island’s tourism authority sees it as one of the many remnants of the Dutch conquest. Since the island observes it as a public holiday, all offices and stores are closed.
This does not stop locals and visitors from going out to visit their favorite bar or restaurant. Visitors should remember to make reservations in advance as Aruba gets quite busy during Christmas and New Years.
Where to go during Boxing Day
One of the most common plans to enjoy Boxing Day in Aruba is by spending the entire day on the beach. Credits: Glenn Langhorst/Pexels
Will you be spending Boxing Day in Aruba and are afraid of running out of things to do? Well, fear no more because the island has something for everyone. You just have to do a little research and be prepared to have the time of your life.
Plan a beach day
The most common answer will always be a day at the beach. And how could it not be when Aruba is home to some of the most awarded beaches in the entire Caribbean? Eagle Beach, for example, was ranked the second-best beach in the world on TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Awards last year, thanks to its postcard-perfect turquoise waters and iconic Divi Divi trees.
Those who enjoy water sports or just prefer a quieter setting will have a blast at Malmok Beach. This popular destination is a short walk away from Ocean Z Hotel Boutique. In fact, the hotel offers a shuttle service, ice-cold drinks to enjoy on the go, and on-site lunch options for guests who request them in advance.
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Watch the sunset at the California Lighthouse
California Lighthouse is near Arashi Beach and the Sasariwichi dunes
Just a little further up north, you will find the California Lighthouse. Although it might not be open to the public on Boxing Day, its location on a seaside elevation offers dazzling sunset views that will make the perfect Instagram post.
Not in the mood to go out on Boxing Day? Get some rest and prepare to hit the streets on the 27th to experience the vibrancy of the Dande Festival. This is Aruba’s biggest and most important traditional music event, where dozens of singers and traveling bands go from house to house, blessing families in preparation for the New Year. Rhythm, culture and all the flavor of the Caribbean, what more can you ask for before bidding farewell to the past year?
Rest and prepare for the Dande Festival
Not in the mood to go out on Boxing Day? Get some rest and prepare to hit the streets on the 27th to experience the vibrancy of the Dande Festival. This is Aruba’s biggest and most important traditional music event, where dozens of singers and traveling bands go from house to house, blessing families in preparation for the New Year. Rhythm, culture and all the flavor of the Caribbean, what more can you ask for before bidding farewell to the past year?
Book a stay at Ocean Z Boutique Hotel Aruba
The Master King Suite is a popular option among couples. Credits: Ocean Z Boutique Hotel
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