Dreaming of a holiday filled with sunshine, turquoise waters, warm island spirit, and festive cheer? Every December, Aruba transforms into a tropical holiday paradise. Whether you’re looking for gourmet holiday dinners, artisan markets, fireworks on the beach, or ocean adventures, the One Happy Island offers joyful experiences for every traveler.
✨ Aruba’s Holiday Magic
Aruba’s holiday vibe combines Caribbean warmth with seasonal sparkle:
- Palm trees wrapped in twinkling lights
- Artisan markets and festive pop-ups
- Holiday menus at top restaurants
- Cultural celebrations including Sinterklaas and Dande
- NYE fireworks over the ocean
Cultural Events & Island Traditions
Bon Bini Festival (Every Tuesday)
A lively celebration in downtown Oranjestad showcasing local music, dance, art, and culinary traditions. A must-experience for holiday visitors.
Sinterklaas (December 5)
A beloved Dutch-Caribbean celebration bringing sweets, songs, and festivities for families.
Dande (Dec 31–Jan 6)
Local musicians go house-to-house offering blessings for the New Year—a cultural treasure unique to Aruba.
Major December Events
Aruba Fashion Week — December 11–14, 2025
Held at JOIA by Iberostar on Eagle Beach, Aruba Fashion Week brings glamorous runway shows, designer showcases, and upscale nightlife to the island during the festive season.
Holiday Markets & Festive Pop-Ups
Hilton Aruba Holiday Artisan Market
Dates: December 3, 10, and 17 (7:00–9:30 PM)
Highlights include:
- Local artisan gifts
- Live holiday music
- Festive treats & seasonal cocktails
- Santa visits and family-friendly photos
Holiday Programming From Aruba’s Top Resorts
Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort
This iconic resort lights up for the holidays with:
- Weekly themed events and cultural showcases
- Seasonal decorations across Renaissance Marketplace
- Festive dining specials and holiday cocktails
- Family-friendly entertainment and activities
Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort & Casino
Along with its artisan markets, Hilton Aruba typically offers:
- Holiday dinners at Sunset Grille
- Christmas brunches
- Seasonal cocktails at beach bars
- New Year’s Eve countdown celebrations by the ocean
Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba
Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba offers a peaceful, adults-only holiday escape just steps from Palm Beach. Set among lush tropical gardens with beautifully designed private casitas, the hotel provides a serene and intimate atmosphere perfect for couples and adult travelers seeking a quiet festive retreat. With seasonal touches, cozy hideaway spaces, and a warm, boutique feel, Boardwalk is an ideal spot for a relaxing Christmas or New Year getaway.
Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort (Adults Only)
Perfect for couples seeking a quiet, romantic holiday escape. Popular for:
- Romantic beachfront dinners
- Wellness-focused holiday experiences
- Private, serene settings ideal for a peaceful holiday
Holiday Inn Resort Aruba
A family-friendly favorite offering seasonal menus, kids’ holiday activities, themed entertainment, and beachfront dining throughout Christmas week and New Year’s Eve. Ideal for travelers looking for fun, convenience, and festive vibes.
Radisson Blu Aruba
A modern, upscale holiday option featuring rooftop dining with Christmas and New Year specials, elegant décor, and a chic atmosphere. Great for those wanting a stylish, contemporary holiday experience.
Holiday Adventures on the Water
Red Sail Sports Aruba
Available all holiday season:
- Sunset dinner cruises
- Catamaran snorkel sails
- Scuba diving excursions
- Private charters for families or holiday groups
Pelican Adventures
Known for lively and scenic holiday activities:
- Christmas Week sails
- New Year’s Eve party cruises
- Watersports adventures at Palm Beach
Delphi Watersports
Delphi Watersports offers festive, high-energy fun throughout the holiday season with activities like parasailing, jet skiing, tubing, and special Christmas and New Year’s sunset cruises. Perfect for families, couples, and adventure-seekers looking to add excitement to their Aruba holiday.
️ Holiday Dining on the Island
El Gaucho Argentine Grill
One of Aruba’s most iconic restaurants offering:
- Christmas Eve & Christmas Day dining
- Festive steakhouse specials
- Warm, holiday ambiance
L.G. Smith’s Steak & Chophouse
A premium dining experience located at the Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort, L.G. Smith’s offers elegant holiday menus, expertly crafted cocktails, and signature steaks in a stylish setting. A top choice for Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Eve dinners.
Sunset Grille
Sunset Grille, Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort & Casino’s signature steak and seafood restaurant, offers refined holiday dining with beautifully crafted Christmas and New Year’s menus, premium cuts, fresh seafood, and a romantic setting overlooking the resort’s lush gardens. A perfect choice for a festive, upscale holiday dinner.
Anna-Maria’s Autentico Ristorante Italiano
A charming Aruban dining spot known for its warm ambiance and soulful Caribbean flavors. During the holidays, Ana Maria’s often highlights seasonal dishes, festive desserts, and house-crafted cocktails perfect for a cozy Christmas meal.
Driftwood Restaurant
A long-time local favorite specializing in freshly caught seafood prepared the Aruban way. Driftwood typically features holiday seafood specials and traditional recipes, making it perfect for Christmas or New Year’s dining.
Ricardo’s Smokehouse
Now located at the Renaissance Marketplace, Ricardo’s Smokehouse offers international dishes with Caribbean and Aruban flair in a relaxed, airy setting that glows warmly at night. During the holidays, it’s a welcoming spot for festive breakfasts, lunches, and candlelit dinners — perfect for both intimate celebrations and larger gatherings.
New Year’s Eve in Aruba
Aruba glows brightly on New Year’s Eve with:
- Fireworks above Palm Beach, Eagle Beach, and Oranjestad
- Resort countdown parties
- Pagara firecracker celebrations
- NYE catamaran sails by Red Sail Sports & Pelican Adventures
- Outdoor dining and dancing under the stars
2025 Holiday Quick Calendar
| Date | Event | Provider |
|---|---|---|
| Dec 3, 10, 17 | Holiday Artisan Market | Hilton Aruba |
| Every Tuesday | Bon Bini Festival | Oranjestad |
| Select Thursdays | Dushi Aruba This Way | Renaissance Aruba |
| Dec 5 | Sinterklaas | Islandwide |
| Dec 11–14 | Aruba Fashion Week | JOIA / Iberostar |
| Dec 24–25 | Christmas Dining Events | Various Restaurants |
| Dec 31 | Pagara + NYE Fireworks | Islandwide |
| Dec 31 | NYE Parties & Cruises | Resorts, Red Sail, Pelican |
| Jan 1–6 | Dande Season | Islandwide |
Final Tips for Holiday Travelers
- Book early — December is Aruba’s busiest travel month.
- Reserve holiday dinners & cruises months in advance.
- Mix resort luxury with local culture for the best experience.
- Pack for sunshine — think beachwear and light layers.
Whether you’re here for romantic dinners, cultural experiences, or lively celebrations, Aruba’s holiday season is filled with warmth, joy, and unforgettable tropical magic.
