SAVANETA – May 1st is a national public holiday in Aruba like in many countries worldwide: International Labor Day. This day is to celebrate the achievements of workers. All offices and most stores will be closed on Wednesday May 1st, except for the hotels and the restaurants in the tourist zone with special permits.
Peter J. McGuire, a carpenter and labor union leader, was the person who came up with the idea for Labor Day. He thought American workers should be honored with their own day. He proposed his idea to New York’s Central Labor Union early in 1882, and they thought the holiday was a good idea, too.
Fun!
A great opportunity to experience something different is to visit the Open House at the Dutch Marines base in Savaneta. Once a year they are open to the public and it may be considered as one of the most popular events on the island. There will be all kind of activities for young and old: zip line, food court, market, used car sale, live music, gun demonstration and activities, he K-9 unit, the special police response unit, RHIB boat rides, coast guard demonstrations, helicopter and lottery. Experience what it’s like to be a Marine in the activity village, with an obstacle course, Night Vision Goggles, range firing and so much more. The event starts at 10 AM and continues until 4 PM. Go early to get the best out of it, it is a lot of fun. More information can be gathered at Facebook: Opendagmarinierskazerne.
