January 25th Honors Aruba’s National Hero Gilberto Francois “Betico” Croes
ORANJESTAD – Aruba is preparing to come alive with vibrant celebrations tomorrow, Thursday, January 25, in honor of Dia di Betico. This national holiday pays tribute to Gilberto Francois “Betico” Croes, the visionary leader whose efforts led to Aruba gaining its Status Aparte within the Kingdom of the Netherlands in 1986. Since 1989, his legacy has been commemorated annually with island-wide festivities, cultural events, and sports competitions.
Here’s a handpicked selection of events to enjoy across the island:
🎤 Official Ceremony & Cultural Manifestation
📍 Plaza Libertador Betico Croes, Vondellaan
🕘 9 AM – Official Ceremony
🕕 6 PM – 10:30 PM – Cultural Manifestation
Join the formal tribute attended by Aruba’s governor and government officials. Later, enjoy a festive cultural evening featuring local musicians, food stalls, and a kid’s corner for family fun.
🚶 City Walk with Foundation Rancho
📍 Starting Point: Flor di Oriente
🕘 First Tour: 9 AM | Second Tour: 11 AM
🔗 Facebook: Stichting Rancho
Take a 2-hour guided walking tour through Oranjestad, highlighting the Rancho neighborhood and downtown history.
🏛️ Museum Visits
📍 Historical Museum (Fort Zoutman), Museum of Industry (San Nicolas), Community Museum
🕙 10 AM – 4 PM
Enjoy free entry, local snacks, and performances by artisans and artists.
🔗 Facebook: Fundacion Museo Arubano
🏊♀️ Synchronized Swimming Competition
📍 Olympic Pool Roly Bisslik, Savaneta
🕘 9 AM
Watch Aruba’s top synchronized swimmers show off their skills in a competition focused on figures.
🥋 Tang Soo Do Martial Arts Tournament
📍 Emma School, Ayo
🕘 9 AM
Open to participants aged 2.5+, this Korean martial arts competition features Hyungs and Weapon Hyungs.
🔗 Facebook: Gihae Tang Soo Do Aruba
🎱 Pool Billiard Tournament at La Roca Rumshop
📍 La Roca Rumshop, Moko
Celebrate local legend Hector ‘Zabataya’ Ruiz with a classic billiards competition in a true neighborhood setting.
🤺 Bonus Event: Fencing on Saturday, Jan 27
📍 IBISA, San Nicolas
🕙 10 AM
The island’s Fencing Federation hosts its first match of the year in honor of Betico. Pair it with a visit to Baby Beach nearby!
Whether you’re into culture, history, sports, or simply island vibes, Dia di Betico is the perfect day to get out and experience the pride and unity of Aruba.
Photo credits :https://www.arubatoday.com/celebrate-us-dia-di-betico/
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