Carnival on Bonaire

March 4, 2025

Carnival on Bonaire 2025: The Ultimate Celebration!

2025 was a special year for Bonaire, as the island celebrated the 50th edition of its legendary Carnival! This milestone was an even bigger, more colorful, and more spectacular celebration than ever before. Dancing shoes weren’t needed to enjoy the island at its most vibrant!

A Unique Bonairian Experience

Carnival, or Karnaval in Papiamentu, is more than just a party on Bonaire; it’s a celebration of culture, music, and community. Young and old came together to dance, sing, and fully enjoy life.

The streets burst into color, and the infectious rhythms of "tumba" filled the air, ensuring no one could stand still. What made this carnival truly special was its authenticity - deeply rooted in local traditions and embraced by the entire population.

The History of Karnaval on Bonaire

Carnival on Bonaire was first celebrated in 1975 and has since grown into one of the island’s biggest annual events. In 2025, the 50th edition marked half a century of joyous festivities, cultural evolution, and cherished traditions - an achievement to be proud of!

Highlights of Carnival 2025

Karnaval Grandi na Playa
The grand parade on the final Sunday of Carnival was the absolute highlight. A spectacular procession of colorful floats, energetic dance groups, and dazzling costumes brought the island fully to life!
Vibrant Costumes
No Carnival was complete without extravagant outfits! From handcrafted designs to intricately detailed masterpieces, the costumes brought Bonairian culture to life in a playful and expressive way.
Music and Atmosphere
The rhythm of tumba was unmistakable and took Carnival to its peak. Local artists and bands created an electrifying atmosphere that made it impossible to stand still. Everyone loosened up their hips and danced along!
Children's Carnival
There was plenty of fun for the little ones too! The children’s Carnival gave young revelers their own parade, where they could dress up and take part in the spectacle. A wonderful way to pass the tradition on to the next generation.
Light Parade
The Light Parade was a magical closing event for Carnival. In the evening, the streets of Kralendijk transformed into a dazzling sea of lights, symbolizing unity within the community. A mesmerizing sight no one wanted to miss!
King Momo
One of the most unique traditions was the burning of Rei Momo (King Momo). This symbolic figure represented negative energy and infertility, and by setting him on fire, the community welcomed a fresh start. This ritual, held on Tuesday evening immediately after the Light Parade (Marcha di Despedida Grandi), drew thousands of spectators and concluded with a breathtaking fireworks display, followed by a grand celebration.