National Anthem and Flag Day in Aruba
Aruba celebrates National Anthem and Flag Day, or Dia di Himno y Bandera, each March 18. The date marks the official introduction of Aruba’s flag and national anthem in 1976, and the holiday brings official ceremonies and community events across the island.[1][2]
A day for Aruba’s national symbols
The flag and anthem were introduced together on March 18, 1976. Aruba’s government describes the flag as the flag of Pais Aruba since the island gained Status Aparte on January 1, 1986, becoming an autonomous country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands.[1]
The anthem is “Aruba Dushi Tera.” The government’s national-symbols page credits Juan Chabaya (Padu) Lampe with writing it in the 1950s and Rufo Wever with composing its music; a further verse was added in 1976. The song became Aruba’s national anthem on March 18 of that year.[1]
How the day is observed
Government descriptions of the celebrations include a formal ceremony, raising the Aruban flag, singing the anthem, performances and a parade. A past ceremony at Plaza Libertador G.F. Betico Croes concluded with uniformed services and Boy Scout associations taking part in the parade.[2]
Celebrations can also extend beyond the ceremony and beyond Oranjestad. Government announcements have described cultural, social and sporting activities in Aruba’s districts, as well as food stalls, crafts, books, music and dance at public events. Specific activities and locations vary, so check local announcements for the current programme.[3]
Public holiday and work arrangements
The Government of Aruba lists March 18 as a public holiday. Its employment guidance says work on a public holiday is compensated at 100% above the normal hourly wage. Labor Department guidance explains that the rules vary by sector: some shift-work businesses may schedule employees on holidays, while in other sectors a holiday is generally a day off and work is treated as overtime.[4]
Public offices may close or change their hours for the holiday; for example, Aruba Customs announced a closure for the observance in 2025. Check directly with banks, shops and transport providers for their hours.[5]
When it falls
National Anthem and Flag Day is observed on March 18. The government’s holiday listing identifies that date as the National Flag and Anthem Day.[4]
Frequently asked questions
When is National Anthem and Flag Day in Aruba?
What does the holiday commemorate?
It commemorates the introduction of Aruba’s national flag and anthem. The anthem is “Aruba Dushi Tera.”[1]
Is it a day off from work?
It is an official public holiday. Work and compensation arrangements depend on the sector; some businesses may schedule holiday work under the applicable rules.[4]
Are shops, banks and transport open?
Hours can vary by provider. Government offices may close or adjust hours, as Aruba Customs did for the observance in 2025; check with individual businesses and services before travelling.[5]
Sources and references
Sources used for National Anthem and Flag Day in Aruba:
- Simbolo nacional- Government of Aruba
- Governor attends celebration Dia di Himno y Bandera- Government of Aruba
- Aruba celebrates its national holiday on March 18- Government of Aruba
- The Department of Labor and Research (DAO) provides information on compensation when working on official holidays or commemorative days- Government of Aruba
- Customs offices closed due to Flag and Anthem Day, Dia di Himno y Bandera, and collective ATV day- Government of Aruba