WILLEMSTAD – The complete line-up for the eighth edition of the Wintertuin Curaçao Kids Festival has been announced, with organizers promising an afternoon filled with literature, music, art, culture and physical activities for children.
The festival will take place on Saturday, September 12, on the wooded grounds of the Curaçao scouting organization on Beatrixlaan in Emmastad. Activities begin at 4:00 p.m., with MC Shenyo guiding children through the program.
This year’s festival centers on the Papiamentu theme “Moveshon,” meaning movement. According to the organizers, the theme represents change, energy and dynamics, ranging from movement in language, art and culture to physical activity.
Children interested in writing will be able to explore language through “Skirbi bai gol!”, participate in a screenwriting workshop with filmmaker German Gruber Jr., or write their own song lyrics to a beat with rapper Mason.
Creative activities will include a large interactive exhibition by Studio Tropicana, making bracelets carrying personalized messages with Beads Paradise, and designing curtains that children can take home.
Music and performing arts also feature prominently in the program. Children can participate in improvisational theater, perform on the Talent Stage or join the Karavana di muzik as it moves through the festival grounds.
Curaçaoan culture will be highlighted through a traditional-instruments workshop led by cultural figure Rudsel “Ruchi” Isidora of Issoco. Traditional youth band Rais Rítmiko will also perform on the main stage.
For children looking for more physical activities, the festival will feature an obstacle course organized by athletics club Trupial, a dance workshop and laughter yoga at the LOL Station. Bubble Mania will allow children to create giant bubbles, while a nature treasure hunt will challenge participants to search for golden deer.
Organizers describe the Kids Festival as a safe environment where children can freely explore their creativity, develop new interests and learn new skills.
Inclusivity is also a major part of this year’s event. More than 350 families and organizations have been invited to attend with complimentary tickets and will be welcomed as the festival’s VIP guests.
Local vendors will sell healthy meals, fresh fruit and juices. Visitors are also permitted to bring their own food and drinks onto the festival grounds.
Advance tickets cost XCG 25 and are available through Caribbean Ticketshop, Van den Tweel Zeelandia and Mensing’s Caminada. Tickets purchased at the entrance on September 12 will cost XCG 35.