Kaya Kaya Festival: The Street Party of Otrabanda

Music fills the narrow streets. Colorful murals light up the old facades. The smell of fresh food and spices wafts through the warm Caribbean air. Kaya Kaya Festival is a celebration of art, culture and community in the heart of Ser'i Otrobanda , Willemstad.

This festival started as a small neighborhood initiative and has grown into one of the largest events on Curacao. Year after year, Kaya Kaya attracts thousands of visitors, all looking for music, creativity and that unique atmosphere that can't be found anywhere else.

But what makes Kaya Kaya so special? And why is this festival so much more than just a party?

What is Kaya Kaya?

Kaya Kaya literally means “street by street,” and the name says it all. Each edition, this festival focuses on a new part of Ser’i Otrobanda, where old buildings are restored, works of art appear, and the neighborhood continues to flourish.

Otrabanda has a rich history, but for a long time it was known for its decay and lack of maintenance. Kaya Kaya is changing that. Not only on the day of the festival, but also for weeks before, renovations are being carried out. Streets are being spruced up, walls are being transformed into works of art and residents are helping to make their neighbourhood more beautiful.

When the festival kicks off, the neighborhood transforms into a gigantic open-air stage full of music, dance, art and delicious food.

What can you expect at Kaya Kaya?

Kaya Kaya is all about coming together, celebrating and creating. This is not just a festival where you come to see a performance, it is a real experience. As soon as you step into the streets of Ser'i Otrobanda, you feel the energy and see the neighborhood come to life.

During the festival you can enjoy:

Live music and performances

Local and international artists perform on various stages, with music styles ranging from soca, reggae and afrobeats to jazz, funk and electronic music. The combination of traditional Caribbean sounds and modern beats makes Kaya Kaya a paradise for music lovers.

Murals and art installations

In the run-up to the festival, the streets of Otrabanda are adorned with new murals and artworks. Local and international artists work together to transform the neighbourhood into an open-air gallery. Many of these artworks remain on permanent display after the festival.

Street performances and dance acts

Throughout the district you can find improvisational theatre, acrobatics and dance shows. From traditional Curaçaoan dances to modern street dance, Kaya Kaya brings an explosion of movement and energy to the streets.

Culinary enjoyment

Food plays a big part in Curaçaoan culture, and Kaya Kaya is no different. The streets are lined with stalls and food trucks where you can sample the most delicious local dishes. Think kabritu stoba (goat stew), freshly grilled fish, pastechis and delicious sweets such as bolo di cashupete (cashew cake).

The impact of Kaya Kaya on Otrabanda

Kaya Kaya is a community project that has had a lasting impact on Otrabanda. Since the first edition, the neighbourhood has been improved, more artworks have been added and residents feel even more involved in their neighbourhood.

What started as an initiative by a small group of creatives has grown into a movement that inspires the entire city.

When and where?

Kaya Kaya usually takes place in August and is held in Ser'i Otrobanda. The festivities start in the afternoon and continue until late at night.

Want to experience this unique event yourself? Or want to know more? Check out the official Kaya Kaya website for the latest updates.