courtesy of: The Morning News
by Rosalie Klein
The charm and delight of Carnival in all its glory is very much exemplified by the children’s parades, when a new generation demonstrates their enthusiasm for continuing with this exciting island tradition. “Fantastical” is a most appropriate adjective for these events, as the group leaders, with a mind towards youthful interests, often choose fairy tale and fun themes, which encourage the youngsters and further delight the spectators. However, it was “Grupo Nos Futuro,” with their stunning treatment of island landmarks and the concept of appreciating all that is Aruba, who were the big winners in the Oranjestad Grand Children’s Parade on Sunday, February 12, and the week before during the San Nicolas Children’s Parade.
Oranjestad’s was expanded with one more group participating and quite a few more large floats, which were not completed in time for the earlier parade.
Nos Futuro won 1st place for Body Piece, Road Piece and Section and 3rd place for float; 1st place float was the Grasshopper Queen from Champagne Group. Though Nos Futuro won Most Creative in San Nicolas, it was Reina Debbi Doo Pre-School, the new group, which claimed it in Oranjestad, though Nos Futuro again won the Culture award. TOB again won the prize for the most participants and Most Luxurious Roadpiece with their Thai Warriors theme.
Because of their outstanding presentation, Nos Futuro was named Group of the Year, with Champagne Group and TOB coming in second and third.
For the youngsters, it really isn’t about the prizes; it is the fun of dressing up and living a fantasy day with thousands appreciating how very adorable they can be. Best of all, this is an island that appreciates the effort, understanding how tiring it is, so they all have off from school the next day! What could be better?
