WILLEMSTAD – Instead of the traditional symbolic burning of Rei Momo, Curaçao’s Carnival season was brought to a celebratory close early Wednesday morning with a spectacular fireworks and laser show during the Marcha di Despedida — the final parade of the season.
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Carnival organiser Beehives Curaçao confirmed that midnight marked the official end of Carnival with the large-scale light and pyrotechnic display, which replaced the customary burning of the Rei Momo figure. This year’s Rei Momo was represented by Benjamin Wefer, better known as Shon Benchi, a key figure in the establishment of Curaçao Carnival, who remains alive. Because the symbolic burning cannot take place while the honouree is living, organisers opted for the alternative spectacle.
Thousands of spectators lined the route of the Marcha di Despedida, enjoying the music, costumes and festive atmosphere as the farewell procession wound through the streets. The event was described as energetic and peaceful, bringing the vibrant Carnival period to a fitting end.
With the fireworks and laser show, this year’s Carnival reached its finale in a memorable fashion, marking the close of weeks of celebrations that form a central cultural event for Curaçao.
The Marcha di Despedida and accompanying festivities officially signal the conclusion of the Carnival 2026 season on the island.
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