I don’t know about you but when I travel I like to pick up a souvenir that I know was locally made. It has so much more meaning and even better if you get a chance to talk to the local artist who made it. There are a few places around Aruba that allow local artist to gather on certain days and sell their crafts. One of them is the Aruba Ostrich Farm. Typically on the first Sunday of every month from 10 AM to 2 PM the Ostrich Farm hosts a local artisan and farmer market. It’s a great chance to have a look at some of the amazing talent and locally sourced products from Aruba. You will see everything from paintings to crafts made from Sea glass as well as honey products, local hot sauces, soaps, customized shirts/bags and plants. They also sell food and smoothies. You can pay for a farm tour that runs every 30 minutes daily from 10am – 2:30pm. It is $14 for adults and $7 for children. It is packed with information! It is located at Matividiri 57, on the road to the Bushiribana Gold Mine Ruins and the Natural Bridge.
Another place to find a local artist fair is at the Renaissance Marketplace Mall every Friday night from 7 – 10pm. Enjoy all that downtown Oranjestad has to offer! Grab dinner and drinks, do some shopping and enjoy the musiс.
San Nicolas has beautifully painted murals on many of its downtown buildings. Take a drive and take in the view! Stunning! While you are in the area you can check out another local artist Aruflamingo Art in San Nicolas. Plan the day trip to Baby Beach and check out these great finds along the way!
A few of the hotels also provide a space for local artists to set up and sell their items. But the times and locations change. Check with your hotel or follow some of the major hotels on Facebook to see their posts when art fairs are being held.
Aruba Consecha can be found in Oranestad near Yemanja Woodfired Grill and also a location in San Nicolas near the painted murals. Both addresses can be found on Google Maps.
The Aloe Man is a local artist in my mind! He walks the beaches selling his locally made aloe. From his ‘colorful’ outfits to his unmistakable “Woo Hoo!”, your trip isn’t complete without trying his product, or at the very least, engaging in a lively conversation with him.