Saint Nicolas and Over One Hundred Helpers Arrive in Aruba on Sunday, November 15
ORANJESTAD — On Sunday, November 15, 2026, Saint Nicolas and over one hundred of his Pieten helpers will arrive on our island for a cultural family event that has long been a highlight on Aruba’s annual calendar.
DuranteDuring a recent press conference, the organizing committee briefed the public on the preparations, the official schedule, and the various activities planned for the arrival. This year's celebration features the traditional harbor arrival, a festive parade through downtown Oranjestad, and an entertainment program hosted especially for children.
Arrival of Saint Nicolas at the Aruba Ports Authority The official program kicks off at the Aruba Ports Authority (APA) terminal, where Saint Nicolas and over one hundred helpers will arrive by boat.
Doors to the Cruise Terminal (Gate 5, near Welcome Plaza) open to the public at 2:00 PM, giving families time to gather and build excitement ahead of the arrival.
According to the schedule, Santa's boat will dock at 3:00 PM. Upon arrival, Saint Nicolas and his team will disembark to begin the festivities. This is traditionally one of the most memorable highlights of the event, bringing children and families together to welcome Saint Nicolas and join in the festive spirit.
Festive Streetcar Ride Through Downtown Oranjestad
Following their arrival at the port, Saint Nicolas and his helpers will board the ARUTRAM streetcar for a special procession through downtown Oranjestad, accompanied by live music and performance shows.
The route starts at Welcome Plaza and follows the streetcar tracks past the Arubus station on Weststraat, turning onto Havenstraat and Kazernestraat, before reaching Caya G.F. Betico Croes. The parade will conclude in front of Plaza Nikki Habibe (Djispiesplein), where the next phase of the program takes place.
This streetcar parade brings the celebration directly from the port area into the heart of the city, surrounding downtown with a vibrant holiday atmosphere.
Children's Program at Plaza Nikki Habibe
The parade is expected to arrive at Plaza Nikki Habibe at 4:00 PM, where an exciting entertainment lineup awaits children and their families. Highlights include dance performances, stage shows, classic children's games, and photo opportunities with Saint Nicolas.
Food and beverage booths will also be set up across the plaza, allowing families to enjoy snacks and refreshments throughout the event. Activities at Plaza Nikki Habibe will run until 6:00 PM, bringing the day’s official celebrations to a close.
Important Guidelines for Parents
Because the event takes place during the afternoon and large crowds are expected, event organizers encourage parents to keep health and safety top of mind for their children.
Attendees are advised to prepare for the heat and sun exposure by bringing sunblock and staying fully hydrated. Parents should also consider sound levels during the performances—especially for children sensitive to loud music—and stay alert near traffic and crowded areas along the route.
Organizers ask for everyone's cooperation in making this a safe, enjoyable celebration for guests of all ages.
The Government of Aruba, Aruba National Days Celebration (Committee Comision Celebracion Dianan Nacional di Aruba – CCDN), Department of Culture (DCA), and UNOCA cordially invite all families to join the festivities and welcome Saint Nicolas on Sunday, November 15, 2026.