This past weekend, the Aruban carnival group Bacchanal Tribe achieved a historic milestone during the 2025 Zomercarnaval in the Netherlands. For the first time in the event’s history, two siblings were crowned King and Queen in the same year.
Celine Rodgers was named Queen Zomercarnaval 2025, winning Best Show and Best Costume. Her brother, Oneal Rodgers, took home the title of King Zomercarnaval 2025 and was named second runner-up for both Best Show and Best Costume. The pair represented Bacchanal Tribe, an Aruban group that has now earned the top title three years in a row.
Months of preparation and a powerful team effort
Behind this historic success were months of intense preparation. Choreography for both performances was handled by Aruban Kevin Boekhoudt, while Aruban designer Endy Croes created the eye-catching costumes. Every detail was carefully planned to deliver a strong and memorable performance.
Their win marks several firsts in the history of Zomercarnaval:
- First time two siblings have won the Royalty Election in the same year.
- First time a single carnival group has won both King and Queen titles.
- First time a Queen has also won Best Show and Best Costume, as those awards are typically evaluated across all contestants regardless of gender.
- First time a contestant painted her own costume and won Best Costume.
- King Zomercarnaval 2024, Gillian Gil—also of Bacchanal Tribe—personally crowned Oneal Rodgers as King 2025.
- Second consecutive year that Bacchanal Tribe has won both Best Show and Best Costume.
- Third year in a row Bacchanal Tribe has claimed the Royalty title.
Because of this victory, Bacchanal Tribe will open the Zomercarnaval parade on July 26 in Rotterdam.
Gratitude and pride from the Aruban community
The accomplishment was made possible thanks to the support of many volunteers, family, and friends in both Aruba and the Netherlands. Oneal and Celine expressed their heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed, especially their sponsors: Zorgizz B.V., Fortius Radiostation, La Bandera, and Top Feestzaal.
Celine, now a triple award winner, stood out not only for her stage presence but also for the creativity and personal touch she brought to her costume.
“As a parent, it’s amazing to witness this moment,” said Carol Bruyning, the mother of one of the winners. “We worked so hard to make this trip possible, and we’re so proud to be here.”
Oneal and Celine are now inviting all Arubans living in the Netherlands to join them at the parade in Rotterdam to celebrate this milestone and show pride in what the Aruban community has achieved.
