During the Carnival evaluation meeting, Aruba Tourism Authority (ATA) CEO Ronella Croes expressed her deep gratitude and appreciation for the work carried out by the outgoing board of Stichting Maneho di Aruba su Carnaval (SMAC). Croes emphasized that Carnival is the largest cultural manifestation on our island and has enjoyed ATA’s continuous and steadfast support for many years.
In her remarks, Croes highlighted that the outgoing SMAC board implemented significant structural changes and innovative initiatives that have borne fruit. “There are things that went well and things that need improvement, but this is a board that accomplished a great deal,” the ATA CEO noted, while simultaneously offering her full support and wishing great success to the incoming SMAC board for the upcoming season.
Recognition of All Pillars of Carnival Looking beyond the organization leading the festivities, Croes paused to acknowledge that Carnival remains vibrant and grand thanks to everyone who closely supports it—both the current groups, musicians, and volunteers, as well as those who paved the way before SMAC existed. She reaffirmed that by hosting the season kick-off at ATA itself, the organization reiterates that Carnival can continue to count on its backing.
More Opportunities and Experiences for Our Visitors As a key priority moving forward, Ronella Croes made an appeal to explore greater opportunities to integrate our visitors into the celebration. According to Croes, there is still room to provide better infrastructure and options so tourists can experience this cultural celebration up close.
She explained that this does not necessarily require direct participation in the parades, but rather creating better roadside amenities and unique experiences. Croes underscored that these initiatives do not have to come exclusively from ATA, but can emerge as private or commercial ventures that allow visitors to experience Carnival in a more accessible and organized manner.
Finally, the ATA CEO wished the entire Aruban community a wonderful Carnival season, urging everyone to enjoy the festivities safely and responsibly.