The Aruba Tourism Authority (A.T.A.) is informing residents, business owners, customers and shoppers in downtown Oranjestad about preparations for the Autentico Aruba Culinary Festival 2026.
The festival will take place on Saturday, October 10, and Sunday, October 11, 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 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., visitors can enjoy a variety of food and beverage stands, local culinary specialties and live entertainment.
What to expect during preparations?
Site preparations will begin on Friday, October 2, from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Plaza Niki Habibe, Plaza Sabor and Plaza Commercio. From Sunday, October 4, through Friday, October 9, construction and setup will continue at various locations throughout the area, also between 9:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.
Residents and businesses should also expect scheduled sound checks on Saturday, October 10, and Sunday, October 11, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
During the preparation period, people in the area may notice technical equipment, vehicles and vans carrying equipment, the installation of vendor booths and temporary structures, lighting and sound equipment, and increased activity from production staff. The work will take place gradually at different locations throughout downtown as the festival site is prepared.
A.T.A. said it is making every effort to minimize inconvenience and maintain access to businesses and residences throughout the setup process.
Impact on traffic and parking
A.T.A. is also warning the public that temporary parking restrictions, traffic diversions and changes to access may be introduced during the preparation week due to logistical and technical activities related to the festival.
To allow for the safe setup and operation of the event, motorists are asked not to park along the event route starting Friday, October 9, at 6:00 p.m. This includes Wilhelminastraat, Columbusstraat and parts of Ooststraat and Nieuwstraat.
On Friday, October 9, the roads will be closed to vehicles from 6:00 p.m. to midnight 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 for residents and customers of local businesses.
People planning to shop or visit downtown that weekend are advised to allow extra travel time, follow traffic signs and use alternative parking areas.
What to expect during dismantling?
After the festival, booths, temporary structures and other event-related infrastructure will be dismantled from Monday, October 12, through Wednesday, October 14, daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
During this period, residents, businesses and visitors may notice technical equipment and increased logistical activity in the area as the site is gradually returned to its regular condition.
On Monday, October 12, the roads will remain closed to vehicles and open to pedestrians from midnight to 5:00 a.m. After 5:00 a.m., the roads will reopen to regular traffic while dismantling work continues.
The Aruba Tourism Authority and the Autentico team thank residents, business owners, employees, customers and visitors for their understanding and cooperation as downtown Oranjestad prepares to host a celebration of local cuisine.
