Boxing Day in Aruba
Aruba lists Boxing Day, December 26, as an official holiday. Government guidance says employees are entitled to time off or additional compensation when required to work on an official holiday, while visitor guidance describes closures alongside services that may remain available.[1][2][3]
Official status and date
The Government of Aruba includes Christmas Day and Boxing Day, December 25 and 26, in its list of holidays. The date is fixed: Boxing Day is December 26, the day after Christmas.[1]
The government’s holiday page identifies the date but does not explain whether another day replaces it when December 26 falls on a weekend. The listed holiday calendar and the site’s calendar data give December 26 as the holiday date, with no substitute day specified.[1]
Aruba’s observance
Aruba’s tourism authority describes Boxing Day as a Dutch tradition that originated in the colonial period.[2]
The tourism authority places Boxing Day within the island’s Christmas season and mentions Christmas services and seasonal decorations.[2]
Work and holiday pay
The Government of Aruba says official holidays are additional days off for employees rather than vacation days. Its labor department explains that employees required to work on official holidays may be entitled to additional compensation, with the treatment depending on the sector and work arrangement.[1][3]
The labor department’s guidance describes different arrangements for hospitality, casinos, shift-work sectors, and other businesses. Employees who need to know whether they are scheduled to work or how their pay is calculated should check their employer’s arrangement and the applicable labor guidance.[3]
What may be open
Aruba’s tourism authority says offices and shops close for Boxing Day, while hotels and their facilities and most restaurants and bars generally operate as usual. These descriptions do not guarantee the hours of a particular business, so visitors should confirm plans with the hotel, restaurant, or shop directly.[2]
Check bank and transport schedules with the relevant provider before relying on a particular service that day.
Boxing Day in Aruba: FAQs
Is Boxing Day an official public holiday in Aruba?
Yes. The Government of Aruba lists Boxing Day among its holidays on December 26.[1]
When is Boxing Day observed?
It is observed on December 26, the day after Christmas.[1]
Do employees get the day off?
Are shops and restaurants open?
Aruba’s tourism authority says offices and shops close, while hotels, hotel facilities, and most restaurants and bars generally remain open. Confirm specific opening hours directly with the business.[2]
Are banks and public transport operating?
Check bank and transport schedules with the relevant provider before travelling.
Sources and references
Sources used for Boxing Day in Aruba:
- Holidays- Government of Aruba
- Boxing Day in Aruba – Official Aruban Holiday- Aruba Tourism Authority
- The Department of Labor and Research (DAO) provides information on compensation when working on official holidays or commemorative days- Government of Aruba