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culturalEvent

Betico Croes Day

Honouring the father of Aruban autonomy

When25 January every year
WhereSanta Cruz, San Nicolas & South
CostPublic ceremonies and cultural events are free; food and drink are sold at any stalls.
FrequencyAnnual
Type
Cultural
When
January to January
Duration
1 day
Location
Santa Cruz
Cost
Public ceremonies and cultural events are free; food and drink are sold at any stalls.
Frequency
Annual
Attendance
Family crowds at ceremonies and cultural events across the island
Family friendly
Yes
First held
Honours the birthday of Betico Croes, father of Aruban autonomy
Local name
Dia di Betico
Best arrival
Arrive for the morning ceremonies, with cultural events continuing through the day
What to wear
Light summer clothing; blue, yellow, and white to match the national flag
Food highlights
Aruban staples from food standsFresh juices and cold drinksLocal snacks and grilled fare
Warnings
It is a public holiday, so expect closuresStay hydrated in the midday heatKeep belongings secure at busy events
What to bring
Sun protectionCash for any food stallsWaterA small flag if you have one
The overview

Betico Croes Day

Betico Croes Day, on 25 January, is one of Aruba's most important national holidays, honouring the birthday of Gilberto Francois Betico Croes, the political leader regarded as the father of Aruba's autonomy. Croes led the movement that won Aruba its separate status aparte within the Kingdom of the Netherlands in 1986, and the day is also marked as National Heroes and National Anthem and Flag Day.

The holiday is a celebration of Aruban identity. The blue, yellow, and white national flag appears everywhere, and the programme leans into folklore, traditional music, ceremonies, and patriotic displays. Croes was born in Santa Cruz, which holds a special place in the commemorations, alongside events in Oranjestad and across the island.

How the day is marked

  • Ceremonies and flag-raising honouring Betico Croes and Aruban autonomy.
  • Folkloric music, dance, and patriotic performances.
  • Family gatherings and cultural events across the island.

It is a welcoming day to experience Aruban national pride firsthand. Many businesses close for the public holiday, so plan around it, and pair the day with the island's landmarks such as Hooiberg or Casibari Rock Formations near Santa Cruz.

Good to know

Frequently asked questions

Who was Betico Croes?

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Gilberto Francois Betico Croes was the Aruban political leader regarded as the father of the island's autonomy. He led the movement that won Aruba its separate status aparte within the Kingdom of the Netherlands in 1986.

When is Betico Croes Day?

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Betico Croes Day is a national holiday held every year on 25 January, the date of his birthday. It is also marked as National Heroes and National Anthem and Flag Day.

How is Betico Croes Day celebrated?

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The day brings ceremonies and flag-raising, folkloric music and dance, patriotic displays, and family gatherings across the island, with the blue, yellow, and white national flag on show everywhere.

Is Betico Croes Day a public holiday?

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Yes. It is an official Aruban public holiday, so many businesses and offices close. Plan around the closures, and expect commemorations especially in Santa Cruz, where Croes was born, and in Oranjestad.
Plan your visit

Betico Croes Day

When
25 January every year
Duration: 1 day
Location
Ceremonial sites, parks, and squares across the island, Santa Cruz
San Nicolas & South
Cost
Free
Get directions →
This event is in Santa Cruz →