The MANA Flag and Anthem Day Visit in Aruba attracted an enthusiastic public eager to learn more about the island’s ancestors during the celebration of the 50th anniversary of Aruba’s Anthem and Flag. Museo Arqueologico Nacional Aruba (MANA) and Club Kibrahacha said they were very pleased and grateful for the strong interest shown by visitors who came to take part in the special program. Many families enjoyed a wide and varied schedule of activities in a warm and pleasant atmosphere.
For more than 10 years, Club Kibrahacha has collaborated with MANA, and once again contributed beautiful live performances of music, singing, and dance, bringing even more joy to the national celebration. During the MANA Flag and Anthem Day Visit, the public also enjoyed performances by Ryah Sy, a young MANA volunteer who won second place in the 2026 Festival un Canto pa Nos Himno y Bandera in the adult traditional category with the song “Si nos actua awor.” Carly Buera, who won third place in the 11 to 12 age category, delighted the audience with “Oh Dushi Wals,” and local singer Soraine also impressed the crowd with a beautiful vocal performance.
Many people chose the MANA Flag and Anthem Day Visit as a cultural experience where they could also learn about Aruba’s ancestors. There was a constant flow of adults and children through the permanent exhibition halls, where many took the opportunity to ask questions to archaeologist Raymundo Dijkhoff. Visitors also explored the temporary STICUSA exhibition, courtesy of UNOCA, in MANA’s courtyard. Glass artist Bernadette van der Klooster continuously gave an artist talk about her exhibition, Site-, Side, Sight-Walks.
The auditorium was filled twice with interested visitors attending a presentation on ancient DNA research by archaeologist Harold Kelly together with archaeogeneticist Kathrin Nägele from the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology. This presentation was recorded and will soon be uploaded for those who were unable to attend on March 18.
Children especially enjoyed a coloring book with information about archaeology and DNA explained in a simple way, courtesy of the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology in Germany. They also collected their “Indian stamp,” enjoyed face painting, and received a free gift. Design Academy was present to share information about its MBO4 program, courses, and workshops for young people, and visitors could join a short workshop to learn how to make small clay beads. Meanwhile, artist Andreea Cavidjan-Kock taught both adults and children watercolor painting techniques. Aruva Atelier presented its “Isla” T-shirt collection, while Snackbox completely sold out as many visitors enjoyed rice with chicken or beef soup.
MANA thanked Club Kibrahacha and its members for their years of contribution to Anthem and Flag Day, and also thanked Design Academy, artist Andreea Cavadjan, Aruva Atelier, Mr. Aldrick Figaroa, glass artist Bernadette van der Klooster, ancient DNA specialist Kathrin Nägele, and especially all the young and adult volunteers who dedicated their free time and energy to help make the MANA Flag and Anthem Day Visit such a successful celebration.
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