WILLEMSTAD - Beehives Curaçao has officially kicked off what it promises will be a historic 2026 Carnival season. During a lively press conference on Tuesday at the KONTENTU auditorium in Sambil, the organization unveiled its theme, major innovations and the return of beloved traditions for Ban Karnaval 2026.
Beehives management
The event was led by Beehives board members Athly Maria (Vice President), Germain Brunken (President) and Ryan Navarro (Treasurer). The charismatic Nicole Maduro served as host, opening the gathering with a warm introduction before revealing the 2026 theme: “Ban Karnaval 2026.”
According to Beehives, next year’s Carnival will combine bold new ideas with a deep respect for Curaçao’s cultural roots — a season they say “will change history.”
Honoring Cultural Icons
For 2026, Beehives will honor three influential figures in Curaçao’s Carnival heritage:
Gilbert “Gibi” Doran
Marylin “Milly” Hart
Almocrates “Mocky” Job
The organization’s vision is to reunite the entire community with Carnival, restoring the spirit and traditions that define Curaçao’s cultural identity while introducing a modern and vibrant experience. Their long-term goal: to elevate and eventually export Curaçao’s Carnival to the global stage.
Major Headline: Machel Montano to Open Carnival
One of the biggest announcements of the night was the confirmation that Soca superstar Machel Montano will headline the Carnival opening on January 3. The news electrified the audience and is expected to draw record-breaking crowds. Re
turn of the Classic Jump-Up Route
Another major highlight is the return of the traditional Coca-Cola route from Buku to Biesheuvel, a nostalgic favorite remembered by thousands. The classic jump-up path will be reinstated for 2026 “to bring back the authentic Carnival flavor.”
New Half-Day Official Holiday
For the first time ever, Beehives announced that the island will have a half-day official holiday to ensure smooth participation in the Farewell March. This measure is aimed at giving the community more flexibility and comfort during one of Carnival’s most cherished events.
Spectacular Momo Show in St. Annabaai
Among the new attractions: a grand Momo show in St. Annabaai, right in front of the iconic Handelskade. The production will blend modern creativity with Curaçao’s unique atmosphere to close the Carnival season with a stunning visual and musical spectacle.
Tradition Meets Innovation
Throughout the press conference, Beehives emphasized that Ban Karnaval 2026 is not only about innovation but also about reviving many traditional elements that have shaped Curaçao’s Carnival for generations.
The organization expressed gratitude to this year’s sponsors, including: the Government of Curaçao, CTB, Curoil, Landsloterij, Aqualectra, DHL, Selikor, Pizza, KFC, Subway, Promenade, Essex, OMNI and VBC.
With world-class entertainment, renewed routes, cultural tributes and bold new programming, Beehives says 2026 will mark a Carnival season “unlike any other in Curaçao’s history.”
