Celebrations in Curaçao


The Seú Harvest festival:
When it comes to festivities in Curaçao, the Seú Harvest festival is one of the biggest and most popular cultural festivities celebrated on the island. This history of the Seú is said to date back into the times of slavery. Thus being the reason behind the traditional clothing, music (instruments), and old folklore told during this event.

In order to get more information about this festivity, I had to answer the most important question. What is "Seú "? The meaning behind this word means "sky", a place many see as the home of God himself. Many believe there is a strong connection between them and nature. They would sing and dance, believing it would bring rain and a good harvest. To this day, the Seú Harvest festival is celebrated every year on Easter Monday (folklore parade) in Willemstad.  

The Carnival: 
While The carnival is celebrated all over the Caribbean, many people in Curaçao enjoy this time of the year! It is celebrated from January-February and is derived from a Latin word meaning "removing meat" (Carne levale).  This event also dates back to early times when masters would hold "masquerade" like celebrations, and slaves would hold celebrations as well (even if it was not as big).  

Many captivating things go on during this time. Not only does the festival play classic Tumba music, but they have artists compete for the title of becoming the official Carnival Tumba song! While you enjoy the music flowing throughout the streets, you will be able to look in amazement at the many creative costumes on the street! Many have their costumes made, or some custom make theirs especially for this event!
The most important moment may be the crowning of the "Reina" or queen of the carnival! This competition will determine who is crowned queen. She will represent the mother nature and beauty! Once chosen, she will be taken around for all to cheer on the new Queen of the Curaçao Carnival! 




Sources Consulted: 

Curacao, Events. “Karnaval: The Ultimate Expression of Curaçao Culture.” Events Curaçao, 25 Nov. 2014, eventscuracao.com/karnaval-curacao/.

Jenn, et al. “How Do You Celebrate Carnival in Curacao?” The Rebel Chick, 8 Mar. 2015, therebelchick.com/how-does-curacao-celebrate-carnival/.

 Jourdain, Shari. CURACAO HARVEST FESTIVAL PARADE, 2015, curacaotogo.com/curacao-harvest-festival-parade/.

“Curacao-Seu-festival001.Jpg.” Seu Harvest Festival in Willemstad Curacao, Netherlands Antilles, fritsmeyst.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/Hiking-Biking-Snorkeling-in-Curacao-Netherlands-Antilles/G0000p1Bv0pzht3s/I0000r9_2gObc9ZY/C00001ME_05S1LlA.

Ariba, Salina. “The ‘Seú’ Celebration on Curaçao: Landhuis Chobolobo.” Articles, www.chobolobo.com/articles/the-seu-celebration-on-curacao.

 “Curaçao Carnival 2021.” Tickets Dates & Venues – CarniFest.com, www.carnifest.com/curacao-carnival-2021/.



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