Curaçao Carnival

Curacao celebrations of Lent’s approach began in the 19 th century – masquerade parties and
private clubs were in a fashion at the time. Curacao’s multi-ethnic population celebrated carnival individually with their respective groups. Today Curacao Carnival offers a vast and diverse series of events and a formation of one singular Curacao Carnival experience. The Grand Parade shows off colorful floats, vibrant dancers in costumes all marching along to the tune of Tumba. This musical genre and dance is a favorite of the Dutch Antilles – Tumba’s irresistible rhythms feed the dancers musical appetites all day long. Some traditional elements that are featured in the Grand Parade is the carriages holding the Carnival Queen also known as the Goddess of Fertility –she brings peace and bountiful harvest to Curacao. Royalty needs a court so Prince and Pancho round out the Carnival Queen’s royal posse. Prince and Pancho act as gateways to Curacao Carnival they are boisterous and lively and amp up the energy. As one parade of floats, dancers, and color closes another will arise. Be sure to check out the “Farewell March,” celebrators gather to the streets again in a repeat of joy and frivolity though with an added slight somber tone. It is the time to say goodbye to carnival – lights are added to the many flights in honor of the departure. And the giant effigy of King Momo is burned. As he burns all that cannot move on into the Lent fasting goes with him.