Fin di siman pasa, Centro di Bario Noord a bisti di fiesta pa celebra un milestone masha importante: su di 55 aniversario. Pa mas di mei siglo, e Centro aki a sirbi como e curason di e comunidad di Noord, un espacio caminda generacionnan a topa, comparti y selectamente, celebra nos cultura. Un anochi bailable inolvidabel yena cu e miho musica di nos Isla!

E ambiente tabata ameno, unda por a nota hopi cara conoci fiel bishitantenan di añanan y un comunidad uni cu pa tur e decadanan aki a bira e pilar y e motor di apoyo pa Centro di Bario Noord.

E fiesta tabata den man di dos di nos gran bandanan local cu a pone tur hende baila for di inicio te na final:

• Jerino y su Mini D: A trece nan energia contagioso riba escenario, deleitando e publico cu nan ritmo y presentacion impecable.
• Robert y su Solo Banda Show: Un dushi repertorio cu a haci e anochi uno special, treciendo e sabor y e ambiente cu nan so por duna.

Pa mantene e ritmo y e pista di baile cayente entre e presentacionnan, e veteranisimo Dj Metropolis tabata encarga cu e control musical, tocando e miho mixnan cu a recorda temponan bon di fiesta y hitnan di momento.

Sosteniendo nos Herencia Musical

Arubamusician.com ta felicita e directiva, e boluntarionan y henter e comunidad di Noord pa e logro grandi aki. Centro di Bario Noord no solamente ta un centro social, sino tambe un plataforma crucial unda nos talentonan y nos musica local semper a haya un hogar.

Pa hopi aña mas di musica, union i cultura den curason di Noord! Pabien!

The adrenaline wasn’t just on the water last week at Aruba Highwinds 2026. While windsurfers and kitesurfers were tearing up the waves by day, the nights took on a whole different vibe with an incredible lineup of live concerts. For the rock enthusiasts on the island, there was one absolute standout moment: Rock Night, featuring a powerhouse performance by OZONE.

A High-Octane Performance

Known for their gripping stage presence and heavy-hitting sound, OZONE delivered a set that perfectly matched the extreme, high-energy spirit of Highwinds. The crowd at the Fisherman’s Huts area was fully in the mood as the band ripped through a setlist packed with hard-rocking anthems, soaring guitar solos, and a rhythm section that you could feel vibrating in your chest.

Aruba Highwinds has always been about celebrating the island’s vibrant culture alongside world-class sports. By bringing OZONE to the stage for Rock Night, organizers proved once again that Aruba’s local music scene can hold its own against any international festival. OZONE proved exactly why they remain a definitive force in the Aruban rock community, bridging the gap between local rock die-hards and visiting tourists who were lucky enough to catch the show.

The Flip Flop Festival 2026 is officially becoming even bigger. The organizers, Chill Beer and Elite Empire Entertainment, have confirmed that this year’s edition will take place over two nights — Friday, June 5, and Saturday, June 6, 2026 — at the Harbour Arena Aruba.

This major announcement comes alongside the confirmation that international Argentine reggae fusion artist, Dread Mar I, will headline the newly added Friday night celebration.

Known as one of the most influential voices in the Latin reggae world, Dread Mar I has built a massive fan base across Latin America, the Caribbean, Europe, and the United States. The Argentine artist achieved international fame thanks to his unique blend of roots reggae, romantic lyrics, and Latin urban influences. Over the years, he has accumulated hundreds of millions of streams and views with global hits, including:

• Tu Señora
• Así Fue
• Hoja en Blanco
• Perdóname
• Nada
• Amor de Lejos

Dread Mar I is recognized for delivering live, high-energy performances that unite reggae lovers and Latin music fans alike, making him one of the most requested artists for Aruba’s music scene in recent years.

Ticket and VIP Access Information

The organizers emphasized that fans do not need to purchase an additional ticket to attend Friday night’s event. All tickets already purchased for Flip Flop Festival 2026 will automatically grant access to both nights of the festival.

The festival organizers also clarified several important logistical updates:

• Friday night will feature General Admission and Standing VIP only.
• There will be no VIP tables available on Friday.
• People who purchased a VIP table for Saturday night will automatically receive Standing VIP access for Friday night.

During the official wristband exchange process at Will Call, attendees will receive one (1) wristband which will grant them entry on both Friday, June 5, and Saturday, June 6.

Saturday Lineup and Local Talent

Saturday night, June 6, will continue with the previously announced international lineup, featuring global reggaeton superstar Myke Towers and soca icon Machel Montano.

Myke Towers is currently ranked among the biggest names in Latin urban music worldwide, with over 38 million monthly listeners on Spotify and multiple international collaborations and chart-topping hits. Meanwhile, Machel Montano continues to dominate the global soca scene with his energetic performances, accompanied by his live band, dancers, and his world tour production.

The festival will also continue to showcase strong local and Caribbean talent with performances by:

• Tsunami
• Groove Masters
• I-Culture
• Local DJs and artists throughout the entire weekend.

The organizers also confirmed that more bands, local DJs, and surprises for Friday night will be announced soon. The local electronic music organization, Spacy Island, will curate the electronic music zone in the “Bacardi Area.”

A Growing Festival

Over the years, Flip Flop Festival has evolved from a local entertainment event into one of Aruba’s largest and most recognized music festivals, attracting visitors from across the Caribbean, Latin America, Miami, Curaçao, and beyond. The organizers are expecting thousands of attendees once again for the 2026 edition.

Tickets are currently available via:

• Pay.aw
• Citgo Boulevard
• Citgo Essoville
• www.eliteempire.events

The organizers also confirmed that ticket sales have officially entered the second round, and prices will continue to rise as the festival approaches. Fans are encouraged to secure their tickets as soon as possible.

VIP Table Information: Available via WhatsApp at +297 569-3005.

Flip Flop Festival 2026 is presented by Chill Beer and Elite Empire Entertainment, together with: D’Ussé, Bacardí, Coca-Cola, Sprite, Wilkin Caribe, KFC, Amigo Car Rental, First Class Experience Aruba, Kini Kini Transfer & Tours, PrintMaster, pay.aw, Aruba Airport Authority (AUA), and Rayo.

The closing of Jazz Appreciation Month (JAM) reached its peak this year with an exceptional performance at Scratch Kitchen Aruba on April 30. The event did more than just celebrate the universal genre of Jazz, it served as a platform to showcase the artistic growth of local talent in a professional, semi-formal setting.

Leadership and Precision: Caribbean Combo

The evening kicked off with the Caribbean Combo, a student ensemble from the Scol di Musica Rufo Wever. Under the artistic direction of Master Carlos Bislip on vibes, the group showed remarkable musical maturity by blending Caribbean rhythms into Jazz structures:

• Musical Fusion: Their performance of There Will Never Be Another You, arranged as a Danza, highlighted the elegance of Aruba’s national music.
• Versatility: They explored the subtle tones of Bossa Nova with Lady Bird and brought high energy with the instrumental Mambo Day and Night.
• The Lineup: The ensemble featured Stephanie Quant (bass), Alakina Gonzalez (guitar), Aaron Rincon (piano), Sebastian Sanchez (minor percussion), Renzo Dijkhuizen (congas), and Elijah Wester (drums).

Vocal Excellence and Education

The second half of the program focused on vocal discipline, backed by a high-level trio consisting of Mariano Morales(piano), Serghio Jansen (guitar), and Carlos Bislip (drums).

The vocalists performed a varied repertoire covering the Great American Songbook and contemporary pieces:

• Technical skill was on full display with standards like The Look of Love (Lucre Houtman) and Lullaby of Birdland(Elisabeth Pope).
• The swing and precision of Reanne Ras (Cheek to Cheek), Soliaca Clarinda (One Note Samba), and Tabitha Smit Heemstad (Blessed Assurance) were balanced by the emotional depth of Osdelly Lacroes (Mariposa) and Soraine Leonard (Amor Di Mi Bida).
• Placido Hazel added a touch of sophistication with his version of What a Wonderful World.

A highlight of the night was the appearance of special guest Ruth Silva. As a professional vocalist and vocal coach, her influence was clear in the posture, technique, and confidence of every student. Her closing performances of Ausencia and Misty were a true masterclass in artistry.

Impact and Sustainability

The success of International Jazz Day 2026 underscores the importance of cooperation between the private and public sectors. Special thanks go to the following contributors:

• Scratch Kitchen Aruba, Vibration PR, Cliffix, Lotto pa Deporte, SETAR, Departamento di Cultura Aruba, Aruba Tourism Authority, Scol di Musica Rufo Wever, and Rosado y Associado.

This event reaffirmed that Jazz in Aruba is not just a living tradition, but an academic and artistic discipline that continues to grow in both reach and excellence.

ORANJESTAD, ARUBA (April 24, 2026) — Yesterday afternoon, the Elite Empire Entertainment PR team, led by Marc Benson and Laura Molina, officially announced the 12th Edition of the Flip Flop Festival. The Caribbean’s most anticipated beach-vibe festival returns with a heavy-hitting lineup, a massive new venue structure, and an exclusive two-day experience.

The main event is scheduled for Saturday, June 6, 2026, running from 6:00 PM to 3:00 AM, but this year comes with a major twist for VIP guests.

A Powerhouse Lineup: Reggaeton & Soca Royalty

The 12th edition brings a “clash of the titans” to the Aruba stage:

• Myke Towers: The global Reggaeton sensation is set to headline, bringing the urban sounds of Puerto Rico to the island.
• Machel Montano: The King of Soca coming with his full band and a troupe of elite dancers directly from Trinidad, promising an explosive, high-energy performance.

The local scene is equally well-represented, featuring a diverse range of Aruban talent:

• Bands: Iculture Roots, Tsunami, Buleria, and Groove Masters.
• DJs: The decks will be helmed by DJ Sky, DJ Sin Nombre, DJ Jaimy, and Esovela, with more international DJs to be announced at a later date.

Introducing “The Dome”: The Exclusive Pre-Event

In a first for the festival, Elite Empire revealed a massive addition to the festival grounds. On Friday, June 5, a special pre-event will be held in a newly constructed “Dome” located in the backstage area.

Note: Access to Friday’s pre-event is exclusive to Standing VIP and VIP Table ticket holders. The night will feature dedicated bands, DJs, and a “surprise international artist” to be revealed soon.

Ticketing and VIP Table Structures

Tickets are officially live via the Pay.aw platform and the website https://www.eliteempire.events/events. Physical tickets can be purchased at Citgo Boulevard and Citgo Essoville.

For those seeking the ultimate festival experience, the VIP Table structure has been redesigned:

• Platinum Area: Tables for 10 persons.
• Tropical VIP: Tables for 6 persons.
• Reservations: Dedicated WhatsApp line at 569-3005.

Partners and Surprises

Main sponsor Chill teased “various surprises” for festival-goers, ensuring the atmosphere remains cool as the heat rises on stage. Elite Empire also extended their gratitude to the 2026 partner roster, including KFC, Amigo Car Rental, First Class Experience and Printmaster.

The message from the PR team was clear: with the 12th edition, Flip Flop transcends being just a concert, It is now a full Caribbean festival experience.

This past weekend, the iconic boulders of Casibari were transformed into a luminous sanctuary for creativity as “Vibracion Cultural: Arte di Tarima” (Cultural Vibration: Stage Art) was center of attention. The event, which drew a diverse crowd of locals and visitors alike, celebrated the island’s rich heritage through a sophisticated blend of music, spoken word, and performance art.

The natural amphitheater of the rock formations provided a mystical backdrop for an evening dedicated to the “soul of the island,” proving once again that Aruba’s cultural scene is as sturdy and timeless as the rocks themselves.

A Night of Stellar Performances

The lineup featured a curated selection of Aruba’s finest talents, bridging the gap between traditional rhythms and contemporary expression. Highlights of the night included:

• Poetic Resonance: Local poets delivered powerful verses that touched on themes of identity, nature, and the Aruban spirit, echoing through the rock crevices.
• Musical Fusion: From soulful acoustic sets to rhythmic folk-inspired melodies, the music kept the audience fascinated under the starlight.
• Celebrating Legacy: The event also served as a milestone celebration for Fundacion Muchila Creativo, marking 23 years of fostering artistic growth in the Aruban community.

Community and Identity

Beyond the entertainment, “Arte di Tarima” focused on social cohesion. The event successfully brought together different generations, from elders sharing stories of old Aruba to youngsters discovering new ways to express their artistic flair.

“There is a specific energy at Casibari that you won’t find anywhere else,” noted one of the organizers. “When you combine that natural history with the live voices of our people, you create a ‘vibration’ that stays with the audience long after they leave.”

Looking Ahead

The success of last weekend’s gathering signals a growing appetite for authentic, grass-roots cultural events in Aruba. The organizers of Vibracion Cultural expressed their gratitude to the community for the massive turnout and teased that more “Stage Art” pop-ups are planned for various historic locations across the island in the coming months.

ORANJESTAD, Aruba — The Stichting Maneho di Aruba su Carnaval (SMAC) recently hosted a festive “Thank You Party” to express its heartfelt gratitude to the diverse group of individuals and organizations that have supported Aruba’s Carnaval over the past four years.

The event served as a celebration of the collective effort required to bring the island’s largest cultural manifestation to life, while also marking a significant milestone: the conclusion of Darren van Ommeren’s four-year tenure as President.

A Night of Gratitude

The gathering brought together volunteers, sponsors, security personnel, government officials, and media partners. The primary goal was to acknowledge those who worked behind the scenes—often for long hours—to ensure that every parade, contest, and musical event ran smoothly from 2022 through 2026.

Key Highlights of the Celebration:

• Recognition of Stakeholders: SMAC representatives took the stage to thank the unsung heroes whose dedication kept the spirit of Carnaval alive, especially during the transitional years following global challenges.
• Leadership Tribute: Much of the evening focused on the leadership of Darren van Ommeren. As President, van Ommeren was credited with navigating the organization through complex logistical shifts and modernizing several aspects of the Carnaval experience.
• Cultural Unity: Attendees enjoyed an evening of local music and camaraderie, reinforcing the idea that Carnaval is not just a series of events, but a pillar of Aruban identity.

“The National Commission for Intangible Cultural Heritage Aruba would like to thank everyone who participated this past Saturday in their successful first national consultation. On this occasion, they had the opportunity to hear from the music sector.

The participation of key actors within our community will help us develop a national inventory to identify which intangible heritage must be safeguarded for future generations!

Elaboration: Why This Matters

This announcement is a significant step in Aruba’s commitment to the UNESCO 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage. Here is a deeper look at what is happening:

• The Focus on Music: By starting with the music sector, the Commission is engaging with the heartbeat of Aruban identity. This includes traditional genres like the Wals, Danza, Mazurka, and the iconic Caha di Orgel, Tambu as well as seasonal traditions like Dande and Carnival rhythms.
• The “National Inventory”: This isn’t just a list. It is a formal recognition. Creating an inventory is a prerequisite for seeking international protection or funding. It documents the “living” culture—the practices, representations, expressions, knowledge, and skills that communities recognize as part of their cultural heritage.
• “Safeguarding” vs. “Preserving”: While “preserving” often refers to keeping something frozen in time (like an artifact in a museum), safeguarding is about ensuring that living traditions continue to be practiced and passed down from masters to apprentices and from parents to children.
• Community-Led: The Commission emphasizes “key actors” because intangible heritage cannot be defined by the government alone. It must be defined by the practitioners, the musicians, instrument makers, and historians—who keep the culture alive every day.

What’s Next? Since this was the first consultation, you can expect future sessions to focus on other “pillars” of heritage, such as:

1. Oral traditions and expressions (including Papiamento as a vehicle of heritage).
2. Performing arts (dance and theater).
3. Social practices, rituals, and festive events.
4. Knowledge and practices concerning nature and the universe.
5. Traditional craftsmanship.

Are you involved in the Aruban arts scene, or are you looking to participate in one of these upcoming sessions?

Last Thursday, the National Library of Aruba (Biblioteca Nacional Aruba) hosted a culturally significant event: the public screening of the documentary “Historia y preservacion di caha di orgel di Aruba”.

Presented by Ivan Quandus, who has become a key figure in safeguarding this unique musical heritage, the evening was more than just a film screening—it was a celebration of Aruban identity.

The event kicked off with a lively, festive atmosphere. Before the film rolled, attendees were treated to the authentic sounds of the caha di orgel playing in the background allowing the audience to reconnect with the melodies that have entertained Aruban weddings, parties, and holidays for generations.

By presenting this event to the general public, the National Library and Ivan Quandus provided a space for both the older generation to reminisce and the younger generation to discover a craft that is uniquely Aruban. The evening concluded with a sense of collective pride, reinforcing the idea that while technology changes, the “soul” of Aruban music found within the gears and pins of the caha di orgel must be protected.

It was a night where history wasn’t just read about in books, but heard and felt through the hand-cranked melodies of the island’s most iconic instrument.

Yesterday, at a packed Sasy Coffee Pub, the audience enjoyed a jazz concert performed by Reno Steba and his quartet.

The evening kicked off with a mix of Brazilian music and swing, alongside local selections featuring creative improvisations. The event also featured a special guest appearance by violinist Omar Kock.

The highlight of the night was a heartfelt tribute by Reno Steba to the legendary drummer Herbert “Ebby” Peterson, who famously performed with Padu del Caribe, the “Father of Aruban Culture.”