THE GRAND FINALE: ARUBA’S 72ND GRAND PARADE CONCLUDES IN A BLAZE OF GLORY. part 2 of 2
ORANJESTAD, ARUBA – As the sun dipped below the horizon this past Sunday, February 15, 2026, the energy in Oranjestad only intensified. Following the spectacular opening by the first four powerhouses—TOB, Dushi, Los Laga Bai, and HEPA DMC Society—the second half of the 72nd Grand Carnival Parade raised the bar even higher.
The streets remained a sea of movement as the final four groups brought the “Grand” to the Grand Parade, proving why Aruba’s Carnival is a world-class cultural phenomenon.
The Final Four: A Symphony of Color and Sound
The second half of the procession was a masterclass in Aruban creativity, featuring veteran groups and legendary musical ensembles that kept the “jump-up” spirit alive until the very last meter:
| Group Order | Carnival Group | Highlights |
| 5 | Colours Carnival Group | True to their name, Colours saturated the route with a vibrant palette. Their section was a high-energy explosion of neon plumes and synchronized choreography that had the roadside crowds dancing along. |
| 6 | Royal Carnival Group | Bringing an air of prestige to the afternoon, Royal showcased massive, intricate road pieces. Their music commanded the boulevard, blending traditional carnival sounds with modern hits. |
| 7 | Empire Carnival Group | Empire turned the streets into a regal display of gold and deep jewel tones. Their craftsmanship was on full display with some of the most elaborate headpieces seen this season, shimmering under the streetlights. |
| 8 | Champagne Carnival Group | Closing the group lineup with their signature flair, Champagne delivered a powerhouse performance. As one of the island’s most storied groups, they ensured the parade ended on a literal high note with a carpet of red feathers of the Massa group. |
The Burning of King Momo
The festivities reached their symbolic and fiery conclusion at the Aruba Harbour Arena. In a tradition that dates back decades, the legendary King Momo—the spirit of Carnival—was read his “will” and set ablaze.
The burning of the oversized effigy signifies the end of the indulgence and the beginning of the Lenten season. As the flames rose against the night sky, participants shared a final “last lap,” dancing around the bonfire in a bittersweet farewell to the 72nd edition.
“The fire of King Momo doesn’t just end the party; it cleanses the island. We burn the spirit of excess so we can return to our daily lives with a renewed heart, already dreaming of next year.” — A long-time Carnival participant
A Season for the Record Books
With the embers of King Momo fading, Aruba now transitions into a period of rest. This 2026 season was marked by a stunning return to massive participation and a heavy emphasis on live music, solidifying the island’s reputation as the “One Happy Island” with “One Big Heartbeat.”
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