WILLEMSTAD – Grupo Serenada will take center stage at Culture Week 2025 as the beloved folkloric music group celebrates its 50th anniversary. The weeklong event, running from September 28 to October 5, carries the theme “Our Musical Heritage” and will highlight the preservation and renewal of Curaçao’s cultural traditions.

Founded in 1975, Grupo Serenada has been entertaining and inspiring the Curaçao community for decades with its modern take on traditional folklore. The group is known for its distinctive vocal harmonies and the use of authentic instruments such as the benta, barí, tambú, and chapi. Their work is dedicated to rediscovering and preserving Papiamentu songs that might otherwise be lost to time.

Over the past fifty years, the ensemble has released ten albums and a DVD featuring traditional songs, classics, and new Papiamentu compositions. In 1993, musical leader Henri “Harry” Moen received the Cola Debrot Prize, Curaçao’s highest cultural honor, in recognition of his contributions to the island’s heritage.

Festive Opening in Marie Pampoe

Culture Week will open on September 28 at 4:00 p.m. at the Marie Pampoe Recreation Area. The festive program will feature performances by Grupo Serenada along with Grupo Ruta, Bena Mayó, Kai Òrgel, Forsa Dos, Doble R Klasiko, DJ Krokzz with MC Chris Strick, and ICONS.

The event promises to showcase Curaçao’s rich musical traditions while celebrating half a century of Grupo Serenada’s unique role in keeping cultural heritage alive.