2 Best Bars in Aruba

Most of the main events during the annual Carnival take place in Oranjestad, but San Nicolas is considered to be the birthplace of the island’s Carnival traditions. Celebrations include a lighting parade, music competitions, and a mini-grand parade the day before the big one in Oranjestad. And this is the only location for Jouvert Morning, the annual sunrise road march that starts at 4 am—another reason the town was dubbed “Sunrise City.” The Carnival Village in the heart of town hosts many more events year-round, and on weekend nights you'll often have small bands outside the colorful little food truck–style kiosks for local's night out. You can also grab some great local food and cold beer there during the day after 11 am; there's always at least one of them open.

It doesn't get any more old-school local downtown than this spot. By day, it's the closest thing to an old-time malt shop where workers gather to gossip and take hot dogs, pastechis, and krokets to go; but every Friday night 7–9 pm, the colored outdoor lights go up, the plastic chairs come out, and local live bands set up to play old-time music for the seniors to dance like they used to right out in the street. Visitors are always welcome to join the big impromptu party, and there's cold Balashi beer by the bottle and limited bar service, too.