Aruba at Christmas: Why December Is One of the Most Magical Times to Visit “One Happy Island

If you’ve ever wondered what Christmas feels like on a tropical island, Aruba in December is pure holiday magic with sunshine. Think twinkling lights draped across palm trees, warm ocean breezes instead of winter chills, and festive celebrations that blend Caribbean culture with holiday cheer. Whether you’re planning your first December getaway or returning for your annual Aruba tradition, here’s everything you need to know about spending Christmas on One Happy Island.

Perfect December Weather: Aruba at Its Best

While much of the U.S. is bundled up in winter coats, Aruba is a sunny 82 to 86 degrees almost every day in December. Add in Aruba’s famously low humidity and constant trade winds, and you’ve got peak vacation weather.

December is also the start of Aruba’s high season, which means everything on the island comes alive. Restaurants, beaches, nightlife, and outdoor events are all at their busiest and most vibrant.

Holiday Lights and Island Decorations

Christmas looks a little different when the ornaments hang from palm trees. Aruba goes all out for the holidays. In December you’ll see:

• Colorful light displays throughout the Palm Beach and Oranjestad areas

• Giant Christmas trees at resorts like The Ritz-Carlton, Hyatt Regency, Holiday Inn, and Divi

• Nativity scenes and holiday statues in public squares

• Decorated roundabouts that are surprisingly adorable photo spots

Resorts decorate their lobbies beautifully, making every hotel feel extra cozy and festive, just without the snow.

Island Christmas Traditions You’ll See

Arubans celebrate the holidays with a mix of Dutch, Caribbean, and Latin influences, which creates a really unique December atmosphere.

🎅 Sinterklaas Celebrations (Early December)

A Dutch-inspired tradition where Sinterklaas arrives by boat. Families gather along the docks, parades move through downtown Oranjestad, and kids receive small treats.

🕯️ Dande Festival (Late December)

One of Aruba’s most meaningful cultural events. Groups go house-to-house singing blessings for health, luck, and happiness in the new year. It’s joyful, energetic, and full of traditional island music.

💫 Fireworks Throughout the Month

Aruba loves fireworks in December. You’ll hear small pops and celebrations almost every night leading up to New Year’s Eve. Locals buy “klappers” (firecrackers) and host small gatherings with friends and family.

Christmas Dinner in Aruba

If you’re visiting during Christmas week, you’ll have plenty of holiday dining options. Many restaurants offer prix-fixe menus or special Christmas buffets. Popular choices include:

• Barefoot Restaurant for toes-in-the-sand Christmas dinner

• Moomba Beach for a festive beachside meal

• Flying Fishbone for dinner right by the shoreline

• Elements at Bucuti for a romantic holiday menu

• The Marriott, Hilton, and Hyatt for Christmas buffets and live entertainment

Tip: December fills up fast. Make reservations several weeks in advance.

Christmas Day on the Beach

Instead of snow angels, Christmas in Aruba is all about relaxing in a beach chair with turquoise water in the background. Most travelers spend Christmas Day enjoying Eagle Beach or Palm Beach. Resorts usually offer special activities such as:

• Christmas brunch

• Live holiday music

• Santa arriving by Jet Ski

• Beachside mimosas

The whole day feels warm, happy, and completely stress free.

Holiday Shopping and Christmas Markets

Aruba has several fun spots to shop for holiday gifts or souvenirs:

• Renaissance Marketplace with Christmas pop-ups and local artists

• Paseo Herencia with nightly entertainment and a holiday light show

• STR Farmers Market for locally made products

• Harbour Boutique Market for unique artisan items

Throughout December many shops stay open later to support holiday shopping.

New Year’s in Aruba (Bonus!)

If your trip extends into New Year’s, you’ll experience one of the island’s biggest celebrations.

• Massive fireworks shows all along Palm Beach

• Champagne toasts at resorts

• Pagara events, which are long chains of firecrackers lit throughout the island

It’s a lively, energetic way to welcome the new year.

Why Visiting Aruba in December Is Worth It

December in Aruba combines everything people love about the holidays, like lights, festive meals, and time together, with everything travelers love about Aruba, like beaches, sunshine, and a relaxed island vibe.

It’s warm, lively, cultural, and unforgettable.
If you’re dreaming of a holiday season that feels easy and magical, Aruba in December delivers every time.