ORANJESTAD, Aruba — The Peru Independence Celebration Aruba brought government officials, parliamentarians and members of the Peruvian community together to commemorate the 205th anniversary of Peru’s independence.
Minister of Justice and Integration Arthur Dowers and Tourism Minister Wendrick Cicilia attended the ceremony at Plaza Simon Bolivar on Tuesday, July 28, 2026. The gathering highlighted the historic and community connections between Aruba and Peru.
Community Celebrates Historic Anniversary
Peru’s independence was proclaimed by General José de San Martín in Lima on July 28, 1821. The 2026 commemoration therefore marked 205 years since the historic proclamation.
Members of Aruba’s Peruvian community gathered to celebrate their national identity, history and traditions while recognising the friendships they have established on the island.
The ceremony also included representatives of the Government of Aruba and members of Parliament, reflecting the significance of the Peruvian community within Aruban society.
Dowers Praises Peruvian Community
During the ceremony, Dowers congratulated Peruvian residents and acknowledged their contributions to Aruba.
He described the community as hardworking, dedicated and committed to the island’s development. The minister particularly highlighted its participation in sectors such as construction, gastronomy and sports.
According to Dowers, the community’s daily work supports Aruba’s economy and contributes to the country’s wider wellbeing. These comments represented the minister’s assessment during the anniversary ceremony.
Peruvian Identity Remains Strong in Aruba
Speaking on behalf of the Peruvian community, Carlos Fernandez Joo expressed pride in celebrating July 28 in Aruba.
He said that although many Peruvians live far from their country of birth, their connection to Peru and pride in their identity remain strong.
Fernandez Joo explained that independence celebrations help residents preserve their cultural traditions while strengthening friendship, mutual respect and appreciation between the Peruvian and Aruban communities.
Celebration Strengthens Community Connections
National celebrations held by migrant communities provide opportunities for families to share their history and traditions with younger generations.
They can also introduce other residents to the music, food, customs and historical experiences of the country being celebrated.
The Peru Independence Celebration Aruba served both purposes by maintaining Peruvian cultural identity and creating a shared event involving Aruban officials and community representatives.
The ceremony concluded in an atmosphere of unity and celebration, with participants recognising the long-standing relationship between Aruba and its Peruvian residents.
Aruba and Peru Expand Their Relationship
The celebration took place during a period of increasing contact between Aruba and Peru.
Prime Minister Mike Eman attended Peru’s presidential transition events in Lima during the same week and participated in discussions involving tourism, agriculture, trade and regional cooperation.
Those diplomatic and commercial discussions are separate from the Plaza Simon Bolivar ceremony but provide wider context for the growing relationship between the two countries.
The local anniversary celebration focused principally on the Peruvian community living in Aruba and its contribution to island life.
Through the Peru Independence Celebration Aruba, ministers and community representatives honoured Peru’s history while reaffirming friendship, cultural pride and cooperation between Aruba and its Peruvian residents.
