Curaçao Day

History of Curaçao Day

Curaçao was discovered by Europeans for the first time in 1499 when Spanish explorers Alonso de Ojeda and Amerigo Vespucci arrived. The Spanish determined that the island lacked sufficient natural resources to warrant founding the island, and their major legacy is the name Curaçao. In 1634, the Dutch West India Company seized the island and established Willemstad as its headquarters. Willemstad’s natural harbor made it a vital port for trade, slavery, and piracy. The island saw periods of French and British sovereignty during the 18th and 19th centuries due to imperial wars in the region.

In 1815, Dutch control of the island was restored. Curaçao finally joined the Netherlands Antilles in 1954, as part of an endeavor to unite the many Dutch possessions in the Caribbean into a single republic. The breakup of the Netherlands Antilles took effect on October 10, 2010, despite referendums showing little popular support from the various islands for this new entity. Curaçao was thereafter included in the Kingdom of the Netherlands, with the monarchy remaining in charge of defense and foreign policy.

Under a debt-relief agreement reached between the two, the Dutch Kingdom was also responsible for supervising the island’s finances. Although Curaçao is self-governing, the Netherlands has intervened in its affairs to guarantee that parliamentary elections are held and that correct budgets are finalized. Since 2010, the festival has superseded both Curacao Day on July 26, which honors de Ojeda and Vespucci’s arrival in 1499 and Kingdom Day on December 15, which commemorated the 1954 charter with the Netherlands.

Curaçao Day timeline

1499

Found by the Spanish

The Spanish explorers Alonso de Ojeda and Amerigo Vespucci are the first Europeans to visit Curaçao.

1634

Claimed by the Dutch Company

The Dutch West India Company claimed the island and established Willemstad as its capital.

1954

Part of the Netherland Antilles

Curaçao joins the Netherlands Antilles, an endeavor to unite the many Dutch possessions in the Caribbean into a single republic.

2010

Becoming a Country within the Dutch Kingdom

With referendums demonstrating little public support for this new entity from the various islands, the Netherlands Antilles was dissolved.

Curaçao Day FAQs

When is Curaçao Day?

Curaçao Day 2026 falls on Saturday, October 10. This public holiday commemorates the island’s autonomy within the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

What does Curaçao Day celebrate?

Curaçao Day celebrates the tenth anniversary of Curaçao becoming an autonomous country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands on October 10, 2010. It marks a significant milestone in the island’s self-governance.

Is Curaçao a country?

Yes, Curaçao is a constituent country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. It has its own government and manages its internal affairs, while the Kingdom handles certain external matters.

What is the capital of Curaçao?

The capital city of Curaçao is Willemstad. It is renowned for its colorful Dutch colonial architecture and its historic inner city and harbor are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

How to Observe Curaçao Day

Swing your hips to Tumba music

Celebrate Curaçao Day by immersing yourself in music. The official music of the Curaçao Carnival is Tumba, a mash-up of Latin music and Caribbean instruments — but describing how it sounds is practically difficult.

Educate yourself about the island

One of the most meaningful things we can do to commemorate this day is to learn more about the history of Curaçao Day. We must also celebrate the people's efforts that led to the commemoration of this day.

Make it a culinary cultural event

Gather family and friends for a day for a special meal comprised of Curaçao specialty cuisines. If it’s hard to find a local restaurant that serves the island’s specialties, browse the internet and cook them together with your family.

5 Interesting Things To Buy In Curaçao

Orange liqueur

There are several orange-flavored liqueurs available, but only those prepared in Curaçao employ the peels of the Laraha orange, which is indigenous to the island.

Chichi doll

Curaçao’s bright, hand-painted chichi doll is a famous emblem, the clay figurines are hand-sculpted and available in various sizes, generally with colorful outfits and voluptuous bodies.

Aloe vera for your skin

The tropical aloe vera plant has powerful therapeutic properties: it is beneficial to the skin, high in vitamins, and natural cooling, making it a favorite after-sun cure.

Say yes to Dutch cheese

Given its history as a Dutch trade station, the island is well-known for its massive wheels of delectable Gouda and Edam cheese.

Delft blue souvenirs

Delft Blue is a traditional Dutch ceramic type painted in classic blue and white.

Why Curaçao Day is Important

It is a chance to learn about Curacao's history

This holiday commemorates the official establishment of relations between Curaçao and the Kingdom of the Netherlands. It also commemorates the endurance of the Curaçao people's spirit in all its beauty.

We can eat traditional foods

Curaçaoans go all out for ‘Keshi Yena.’ Many events and festivities feature various delectable delicacies such as 'giambo' (a combination of beef, okra, and seafood such as red snapper) and 'karni satoba' (a beef stew cooked with ‘kabritu’ (goat)).

We don't need a reason to rejoice, but it does help

Imagine all of your favorite holidays packed into one, with plenty of partying, dancing, and food thrown in for good measure. This is possibly the best holiday time ever, with a complete week of fun and celebration.