Preparations for the Autentico Aruba Culinary Festival 2026 to Begin in Downtown Oranjestad
ORANJESTAD — The Aruba Tourism Authority (A.T.A.) informs all residents, business owners, customers, and individuals who live or shop in downtown Oranjestad about the upcoming preparations for the Autentico Aruba Culinary Festival 2026.
The festival will take place on Saturday, October 10, and Sunday, October 11, 2026, in and around Wilhelminastraat, including Zuidstraat, Nieuwstraat, Columbusstraat, Ooststraat, Oude Schoolstraat, Dwarsstraat, Irenestraat, and Caya G.F. Betico Croes. During both evenings, from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM, the public can enjoy a variety of food and beverage stands, Aruban culinary delicacies, and local entertainment.
What to Expect During Preparation
Site preparation will begin on Friday, October 2, from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, at Plaza Niki Habibe, Plaza Sabor, and Plaza Comercio. From Sunday, October 4, to Friday, October 9, construction and setup will continue between 9:00 AM and 7:00 PM in various parts of the area. Residents and businesses can also expect sound checks scheduled for Saturday, October 10, and Sunday, October 11, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
During the preparation period, residents, businesses, and visitors will notice the presence of technical equipment, utility and production vehicles, the installation of stands and temporary structures, lighting and sound equipment, and an increase in production personnel. Work will be carried out gradually throughout the city center.
The A.T.A. is making every effort to minimize inconvenience and maintain access to businesses and residences during the setup process.
Impact on Traffic and Parking
The public is asked to take into account that during the week of preparation, there may be temporary parking limitations, traffic diversions, and restricted access in the area due to logistical and technical activities related to the festival. To facilitate a safe setup and operation, all motorists are requested not to park along the event route starting Friday, October 9 at 6:00 PM. This measure includes Wilhelminastraat, Columbusstraat, and parts of Ooststraat and Nieuwstraat.
On Friday, October 9, roads will be closed to vehicles from 6:00 PM to 12:00 AM, but will remain open to pedestrians. During the weekend of October 10 and 11, vehicle and pedestrian access will be limited at various times, with necessary exceptions for residents and customers of local businesses. Anyone planning to shop or visit the city center that weekend is advised to allow extra travel time, follow traffic signs, and use alternative parking.
What to Expect During Dismantling
Following the conclusion of the festival, the dismantling of stands, temporary structures, and other event infrastructure will take place from Monday, October 12, to Wednesday, October 14, daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, to gradually restore the site to its regular state. On Monday, October 12, the roads will remain closed to vehicles and open to pedestrians from 12:00 AM to 5:00 AM; after that time, roads will reopen to normal traffic while dismantling work continues.
The Aruba Tourism Authority and the Autentico team thank all residents, business owners, employees, customers, and visitors for their understanding and cooperation as downtown Oranjestad prepares for an unforgettable celebration of local gastronomy.