Dia di Bandera (Flag Day)

Dia di Bandera, Flag Day, falls on 2 July and is one of Curaçao's most important national holidays. It marks the day the island's flag was first hoisted in 1984, two horizontal blue bands split by a yellow stripe, with two white stars for Curaçao and its little sister island. The day is a celebration of identity, and the blue-and-yellow flag appears everywhere, on cars, balconies, clothing, and face paint.

Celebrations centre on free public events. Open-air stages host local bands and dancers, and the programme leans into Curaçaoan folklore and traditional music, alongside contemporary acts. Families gather in parks and squares for the day, and food stalls serve local favourites well into the evening.

How locals celebrate

• Flag-raising ceremonies and patriotic displays of the blue-and-yellow flag.
• Free concerts and folklore performances in parks and public squares.
• Food stands serving Curaçaoan staples, and a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.

It is an easy, welcoming day to experience island culture firsthand. Wear blue and yellow to join in, base yourself near Willemstad for the main events, and pair the day with a morning on a calm leeward beach such as Playa Porto Mari before the festivities ramp up.