The Aruba Tourism Authority (A.T.A.) informs all residents, business owners, shoppers, and visitors in downtown Oranjestad about the 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. On 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 Preparations? Site preparation will begin on Friday, October 2, from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, at Plaza Niki Habibe, Plaza Sabor, and Plaza Commercio. From Sunday, October 4, through Friday, October 9, setup and construction will continue between 9:00 AM and 7:00 PM across various sections of the area. Residents and businesses can expect sound checks scheduled for Saturday, October 10, and Sunday, October 11, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
Throughout the preparation phase, residents, merchants, and visitors may notice technical equipment, utility vans, stand assembly, temporary structures, lighting and sound equipment, as well as additional movement from production staff. Work will be carried out gradually at different points in the city center in preparation for the event.
A.T.A. is making every effort to minimize inconvenience and maintain access to local businesses and residences throughout the setup process.
Traffic and Parking Impact A.T.A. requests that the public keep in mind that temporary parking restrictions, traffic detours, and access adjustments may occur in the area during the setup week due to logistical and technical activities related to the festival. To ensure a smooth setup and safe operations, drivers are asked not to park along the event route starting Friday, October 9, at 6:00 PM. This restriction applies to Wilhelminastraat, Columbusstraat, and parts of Ooststraat and Nieuwstraat.
On Friday, October 9, roads will be closed to vehicular traffic 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 restricted at various times, with necessary exceptions made for residents and local business customers. Anyone planning to shop or visit downtown that weekend is advised to allow extra travel time, follow traffic signage, and utilize alternative parking locations.
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. During these hours, residents, businesses, and visitors may notice technical crews and logistical activity as the area is gradually restored to its regular state. On Monday, October 12, 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 breakdown work continues.
The Aruba Tourism Authority and the Autentico team thank all residents, business owners, employees, shoppers, and visitors for their understanding and cooperation as downtown Oranjestad prepares for an unforgettable celebration of local gastronomy.