February is always a magical time in Aruba, but 2026 is bringing a rare and exciting coincidence. This year, Valentine’s Day (Saturday, Feb 14) falls on the exact same day as the spectacular San Nicolas Grand Carnival Parade.
For travelers, this means the island will be buzzing with double the energy. It also means you need a strategy. Whether you are here for the romance, the revelry, or a bit of both, here is your logistical “heads-up” to ensure your weekend goes smoothly.
1. The “Double Header” Logistics: Saturday, Feb 14
Typically, Valentine’s Day is a quiet evening of candlelit dinners. This year, the streets of San Nicolas (the “Sunrise City”) will be filled with thousands of revelers, music trucks, and feathers starting at 11:00 AM and continuing until sunset.
- The Vibe: Expect high energy, loud Calypso music, and a festive atmosphere across the southern part of the island. It is the “cultural heart” of Carnival and a must-see if you want an authentic experience.
- The Traffic Warning: If you are staying in the Hotel Area (Palm/Eagle Beach) and plan to dine in Savaneta or San Nicolas (e.g., Flying Fishbone or Zeerovers), be aware that traffic returning North after the parade (around 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM) will be heavy.
Pro-Tip: Navigating the island during Carnival can be tricky. Should you drive yourself or book a transfer? Check out our latest guide on Renting a Car vs. Airport Transfers for advice and a list of trusted partners like Thrifty, Amigo, and Budget Car Rental.
2. Restaurant Reservations: The “Book Now” Alert
With both locals celebrating Carnival and couples celebrating Valentine’s, tables at top-tier restaurants are vanishing faster than usual. Do not wait until you arrive on the island.
- For Sunset Views: If you want a prime sunset table, book it today. Sunset Grille (at the Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort & Casino) offers legendary steaks with an elevated view of the Palm Beach sunset. For a toes-in-the-sand experience, Water’s Edge Restaurant at Costa Linda or Elements (Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort) are world-class choices.
- For Classic Romance: If you prefer an intimate, air-conditioned escape with old-world charm, El Gaucho Argentine Grill is an island icon. Set in a historic colonial townhouse, their strolling guitarists playing romantic boleros set the perfect mood away from the carnival noise.
Browse our full list of Romantic Dining spots here.
3. Sunday is for the Grand Parade (Feb 15)
The party doesn’t stop on Saturday. The Oranjestad Grand Carnival Parade takes place the very next day, Sunday, Feb 15, starting around 11:00 AM.
- What this means: Downtown Oranjestad (L.G. Smith Blvd) will be closed to traffic for most of the day.
- Travel Tip: If you have a flight on Sunday afternoon, allow extra time to get to the airport. You will likely need to take detour routes around the city center to avoid the parade path.
Want to see the full schedule of events? Check out the official Aruba Carnival Schedule.
Summary
This February promises to be one of the most memorable times to visit One Happy Island. A little planning now ensures you can enjoy the romance and the rhythm without the stress.
Ready to join the party?
Read more about the history and costumes on our Everything Carnival page.
