Kings Day in Aruba

Date and public-holiday status

The Government of Aruba lists King’s Day on April 27 among the island’s public holidays. Its calendar confirms that the date is fixed, although an official celebration can be designated for a different day in a particular year.[1][2]

The Government’s employment information says Aruba has 11 public holidays each year and provides for paid compensation when employees work on a public holiday. The Department of Labor and Research explains that the arrangement depends on the sector: some workers may be scheduled to work, while in other sectors the holiday is treated as a day off. Ask your employer about the rules that apply to your workplace.[3][4]

In 2025, when April 27 fell on a Sunday, the Government announced that Aruba would hold the official celebration on Saturday, April 26, in line with the Netherlands; it identified that Saturday as the official holiday for that year under Article 22 of the Labor Ordinance 2013.[2]

What the day commemorates

King’s Day marks King Willem-Alexander’s birthday. Aruba’s official holiday list gives the observance its place in the island’s calendar, and the Government’s 2025 notice describes it as a celebration held alongside the Netherlands.[1][2]

How Aruba observes it

An official ceremony has been held at Wilhelminapark in Oranjestad. A Government account of one celebration records the raising of the Kingdom and Aruban flags, the playing of both national anthems, speeches, song and dance performances, an awards presentation and a parade of uniformed groups.[5]

The Aruba Tourism Authority also describes sporting events, street fairs, kite-flying contests and family activities around the island. These are examples of the local program; event details can vary, so check official announcements for a particular year.[6]

Planning your day

The Aruba Tourism Authority advises visitors that shops, petrol stations and supermarkets may close early or stay closed for the day. Opening hours are set by individual businesses, so confirm directly before making plans. Check with banks and public transport operators for their hours.[6]

Ceremonies in central Oranjestad can involve temporary traffic changes. A Government notice for one event described rerouting near Wilhelminapark, so check current local notices if you plan to travel through the area.[7]