Join the Celebration of Aruba’s Rich Cultural Diversity
Though the Caribbean is known as a colorful and historically rich region, few travelers are aware of the remarkable cultural diversity represented in Aruba. Originally inhabited by native Arawak Indians, Aruba changed European hands throughout the colonial period. After living under Spanish rule for many years, the island came to be part of the Dutch Kingdom near the end of the colonial period. Though the island maintains its ties to The Netherlands, more than 40 different nationalities are represented amongst Aruba’s population of 88,000. This astonishing diversity can be experienced by visitors in everything from art and architecture to cuisine and entertainment. Yet, one of the best ways to embrace the unique culture of Aruba is to join the locals during holiday celebrations – such as the truly Aruban custom of St. John’s Day, the classically-influenced Carnival event known as Bacchanal and the Caribbean-inspired traditions of New Year’s Day.
One of the most unique local traditions takes place each year on June 24, known as St. John’s Day or Dera Gai. This distinctly Aruban celebration represents a combination of pre-colonial Arawak harvest festivals and Christian traditions introduced to the Caribbean by Spanish missionaries. Though the feast day of St. John is recognized in many countries with Catholic influence, Aruba is the only place in the world that greats this summer holiday with dancing and other festivities.
Throughout Aruba, locals don traditional red and yellow tops on St. John’s Day to symbolize fire. At most of the celebrations across the island, a singer will perform a “dera gai” (dead rooster) song while musicians provide accompaniment on drums, violin and a traditional Caribbean instrument known as a wiri. While the performance takes place, a member of the crowd is selected to hit a fake rooster – a tradition very similar to the Mexican pi