The San Juan tradition arrived directly in the neighborhoods with much enthusiasm and participation.
Bushiri and Dakota experienced an atmosphere of joy, music, and tradition during the celebration of Dia di Dera Gay (St. John’s Day). As part of the initiative “Let’s celebrate Dia di Dera Gay in the neighborhood”, the Government of Aruba, in collaboration with the National Days Celebration Commission (CCDN) and UNOCA Aruba, brought the San Juan tradition directly to the community.
The cultural trailer began its route at the Bushiri Complex, where residents of all ages gathered to enjoy a program filled with Aruban culture. From Bushiri, the celebration continued toward the Dakota Neighborhood and Sports Center (Centro di Bario y Deporte Dakota), where a large number of community members also participated actively in the various activities.
During the route, Grupo Masiduri presented the traditional San Juan dance, while Grupo Cariño provided the musical entertainment. The public also participated in traditional competitions such as jumping over fire, rooster calling, hen calling, flag hunting, and Dera Gay (the traditional blindfolded game), creating an interactive environment where both adults and children could enjoy together.
The community’s enthusiasm was evident throughout the entire route. Several residents expressed that the initiative to bring Dera Gay directly into the neighborhoods makes the celebration more accessible and strengthens the sense of community. They emphasized that the activity gives our children the opportunity to get to know and appreciate a tradition that forms part of our cultural identity, while older generations can share the customs they inherited. According to the residents, keeping this type of celebration close to home helps preserve our cultural heritage and stimulates greater community participation in national traditions.
The Government of Aruba appreciates the collaboration of CCDN, UNOCA, the cultural groups, the volunteers, and all the residents who contributed to making the first stops of the tour a success. The celebration continued its way toward Mabon Kavel and culminated with a grand finale at the Carnival Village in San Nicolas, where the neighborhood gathered to celebrate our cultural heritage.
