This Sunday, May 18th, multiple cultural organizations in the city center will come together to celebrate International Museum Day with a diverse program of events. From 10:00 am to 3:00 pm, people of all ages are invited to discover Aruba’s rich history and vibrant culture.
Special access and programming throughout the city
To make visiting the venues easier, Arutram will operate a special route, giving the public convenient access to participating locations in and around Main Street. The program begins at 10:00 am at Muchila Creativo on Caya Betico Croes (across from Coco Plum), where a visual art exhibition by students will open the day’s events. Visitors can enjoy interactive guided tours, music and dance performances, creative workshops, and a selection of snacks and refreshments.
Space67 (formerly Bon Bini Store), also on Caya Betico Croes, will offer a preview of an exhibition on Dutch colonial slavery, along with a visual summary of its January–March programming and the new Space67 and F&B concept. At Checkpoint Color, visitors will receive a free coffee with any purchase. Those who collect photos from each location can print one free 6×8 photo.
Historical and cultural sites open their doors
At the Historical Museum on Zoutmanstraat, guests can climb the iconic tower for scenic views of Playa, explore exhibitions, and enjoy food from Cushina di Chichi in a musical atmosphere.
A unique exhibition will also be open at MetaCorp on Wilhelminastraat, Aruba’s oldest company, founded in 1920. Visitors will learn about MetaCorp’s history and its various subsidiaries. Just down the street, the Bible Museum inside the Protestant Church will display some of Aruba’s oldest books.
Local flavors and walking tours in Rancho
At Plaza Rancho on Visstraat, just below the National Archaeological Museum Aruba (MANA), Fundación Rancho will be serving up traditional seafood dishes. Visitors can explore the neighborhood using a map or join a guided walking tour, offered every two hours. Donations are welcome.
Special events at MANA and beyond
MANA on Schelpstraat will be open from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. At 11:00 am and 1:00 pm, archaeologist Raymundo Dijkhoff will present Santa Cruz 35: National and Circum-Caribbean Contexts (Island and Continental), the final lecture in a three-part series. Visitors can also enjoy the new temporary exhibition Caribbean Origins: In Play and Fantasy, celebrating 25 years of Queen Hortence & db’s participation in Los Laga Bay and the Caiso & Calypso Festival.
There will also be Carnival headpiece-making demonstrations at 10:30 am and 12:30 pm, a kids’ activity corner, and a relaxing “Coffee Morning.”
Libraries and archives contribute to the celebration
At the National Library of Aruba (BNA) on George Madurostraat, students from the University of Aruba will present the Framing Social Problems and Solutions photo exhibition. Visitors can cool off with air-conditioning and enjoy snacks from “Lieverd Café.”
At the Arubiana-Caribiana Department on Bachstraat, guests can view documents recognized in UNESCO’s ‘Memory of the World’ register and an exhibition on Aruba’s monuments. Short guided sessions will introduce visitors to the national and special collections.
At the National Archives of Aruba, guests can explore exhibitions on World War II and the 75th anniversary of utility company ELMAR N.V.
A global celebration with local impact
International Museum Day was established in 1977 by the International Council of Museums. In Aruba, the event is supported by the National Commission of UNESCO. The celebration highlights the essential role museums play in cultural exchange, education, and community engagement. The 2025 theme is The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities. As the world undergoes major transformations, museums and cultural institutions are vital in promoting resilience, innovation, and inclusivity. These dynamic spaces support social progress and contribute to global sustainability.
On Sunday, May 18, Aruba’s cultural institutions unite to share their love for the island’s heritage, art, and identity—helping to build a more inclusive, innovative, and sustainable future. Bring your family and friends and enjoy a day that is both enriching and entertaining.
