WILLEMSTAD – The traditional Christmas tree in Punda will have a distinctly Curaçaoan appearance this year, featuring colorful handmade decorations inspired by the island's nature, culture, and heritage. A team of 47 employees from Chichi Garden has created and painted the ornaments and life-sized artworks that will decorate the tree, which will officially be illuminated on Thursday, November 12, 2026.
This year's Christmas tree carries the theme "Hopi Man, un Kurason Kolorido," meaning "Many Hands, One Colorful Heart." The theme celebrates the collective creativity and dedication of the Chichi Garden team, whose members have worked together to produce the unique decorations.
The ornaments feature familiar symbols of Curaçao, including flamingos, trupials, sea turtles, donkeys, and traditional kunuku houses. Each piece has been handcrafted and painted in the vibrant colors associated with Chichi Garden's distinctive artistic style.
Chichi Garden is also the official sponsor of this year's Christmas tree, bringing a strong local artistic identity to one of Willemstad's most recognizable holiday traditions.
The official Christmas tree lighting ceremony will take place on Thursday, November 12, at 6:30 p.m. in the heart of Punda.
The Downtown Management Organization (DMO) is organizing the annual celebration in collaboration with Chichi Garden and Holiday Occasions.
The evening will feature live entertainment by Curaçaoan artist Jhay Milesz and the musical group Los Cariñitos, which will perform traditional aguinaldo Christmas songs.
The performances are expected to create a festive atmosphere as residents and visitors gather to celebrate the beginning of the holiday season in downtown Willemstad.
According to DMO, the annual Christmas tree lighting has become an important tradition that brings the community together and attracts families, residents, business owners, and tourists to Punda.
This year's collaboration with Chichi Garden adds a special cultural dimension to the celebration by placing local craftsmanship and artistic expression at the center of the festivities.
The handmade decorations are intended not only to create a festive display but also to highlight Curaçao's cultural identity and natural beauty.
By incorporating recognizable local animals and traditional architecture, the tree will reflect elements of island life that residents and visitors can immediately identify.
The participation of 47 Chichi Garden employees also underscores the collective effort behind the project, reinforcing the message of unity expressed in this year's theme.
DMO hopes the colorful display will encourage residents and tourists to visit Punda during the holiday season, enjoy the festive atmosphere, and support businesses in the city center.
The organization invites families, residents, entrepreneurs, and visitors to attend Thursday evening's ceremony and celebrate the official start of the Christmas season in downtown Willemstad.
With its locally inspired decorations, traditional music, and community participation, this year's Christmas tree is expected to offer a celebration that combines the holiday spirit with Curaçao's distinctive cultural character.