RESULTS OF THE “2026 FESTIVAL UN CANTO PA ARUBA SU HIMNO Y BANDERA” ADULT CATEGORY

As the Caribbean breeze swept across the island, the 29th edition of the Festival Un Canto pa Aruba su Himno y Bandera reached its grand crescendo. This year’s “Adulto” category brought together the finest voices and songwriters of Aruba, all united by a singular purpose: to honor the island’s national anthem and flag through the power of music.

The air was thick with patriotic pride as the results were finally announced, showcasing a breathtaking level of talent in both traditional and anthem-style compositions.

Categoria Tipico di Antaño: Celebrating Tradition

In the “Tipico di Antaño” category, which honors the classic sounds of Aruban heritage, the competition was fierce.

• Ganador Absoluto (Overall Winner): The top honor went to the composition “Nos Tradicion,” performed by the duo Raquel Lampe & Rachel Kraaiivanger. Representing the group Stimami, their performance captured the heart of Aruban culture, backed by the expert composition of Jhon Freddy Tobon Montoya and arrangement by Federico Martis.
• Segundo Lugar: Ryah Sy took second place with the song “Si Nos Actua Awo,” representing Tipico Colegio.
• Tercer Lugar: Segundino Tromp secured third place with “Baluartenan di nos pais,” a true solo effort as he also served as the composer and arranger.

Categoria Himno y Bandera: A Tribute to the Nation

The “Himno y Bandera” category focused on the soul of the island’s identity. The night saw a dominant performance by several key artists and composers.

• Ganador Absoluto: The prestigious title was awarded to Alexa Croes for her stirring rendition of “Nos ta loke tin.” Representing the group D’Nova, the song featured the winning songwriting of Jhon Freddy Tobon Montoya and a masterful arrangement by Denny Loefstop.
• The Podium Finishers:
  • 2nd Place: Veloushka Krozendijk with “Mi Herencia, Mi Raiz” (Shine Music).
  • 3rd Place: Jerrich Kock with “Sea Agradecido” (Shine Music).
• Rounding out the Top 5: Cesar Olarte took 4th place with “Aruba ta Bendiciona,” while Jelitza Croes earned 5th place with “Te den tuti di bo wesonan.”

A Night of Collaboration

The 2026 festival was a testament to the collaborative spirit of the island. Jhon Freddy Tobon Montoya emerged as a standout figure of the evening, composing the winning tracks for both major categories—a rare and impressive “double crown” that highlights his influence on modern Aruban music.

This celebration would not have been possible without the support of the community and sponsors, including Arubabank, Setar, and the Government of Aruba, who continue to ensure that the island’s musical heritage remains vibrant for generations to come.

As the sun sets on the 29th edition, the melodies of “Nos Tradicion” and “Nos ta loke tin” remain, echoing the enduring love Arubans hold for their land, their flag, and their song.