WILLEMSTAD - The Carnival group Hats Off To Dreams (HOTD) has announced its theme for the upcoming Carnival 2026: La Furia de Hispania — a vibrant celebration of Spain’s passionate soul, artistic spirit, and cultural diversity.
With this new presentation, Hats Off To Dreams invites the Curaçao community to embark on a symbolic journey across the Atlantic to the Iberian Peninsula — the land of Flamenco, Picasso, and Gaudí. The group’s concept pays tribute to the centuries of diversity and tradition that have shaped Spain into a nation rich in culture, art, and architecture.
The theme’s visual concept is deeply inspired by Spanish heritage. The costumes draw from the expressive artistry of Flamenco and the spirit of the Spanish Gypsies, “Los Gitanos.” Each design reflects historical and cultural influences from across Spain’s regions. The main fabrics feature a unique Andalusian tile (Azulejos Andaluces) motif, incorporating the HOTD logo, while floral patterns symbolize harmony and the natural beauty that defines Spanish design.
The group’s hats reinterpret the traditional Cordobés hat in a creative format for both men and women. Meanwhile, the women’s headpieces include intricate patterns inspired by Spanish Mantillas (veils) and a Carnival-style take on the Peineta, decorated with flowers and guitars — two powerful symbols of Flamenco, an art form born from the heart and soul of Spain.
Central to the theme is the Spanish concept of “Duende”, which embodies the deep emotional power of artistic expression. HOTD describes Duende as a force that transcends words — an inner spark of vulnerability, passion, and authenticity that, when unleashed, captivates audiences with raw energy and emotional depth.
Through La Furia de Hispania, Hats Off To Dreams aims to inspire creativity and celebrate individuality, encouraging participants and spectators alike to connect with their own Duende — their personal source of passion and expression.
Introducing Hats Off To Dreams Kids
Continuing its legacy, the group has also announced the launch of Hats Off To Dreams Kids, a youth division that will debut with the same creativity and cultural richness as La Furia de Hispania. The children’s costumes will embody joy, spontaneity, and pure energy — celebrating the spirit of Carnival through youthful expression.
For the children, every movement of their capes will echo a joyful “Olé!” — a cry of happiness, courage, and admiration for the moment. The group explains that “Olé” is more than a cheer; it is a way of giving life and emotion to everything they do, an invitation to enjoy the moment, feel the music, and express pride in one’s identity.
With this initiative, Hats Off To Dreams Kids seeks to inspire young people to explore global cultures with open minds, recognizing that every culture holds its own unique beauty, history, and rhythm.
Through La Furia de Hispania, Hats Off To Dreams celebrates Spain in all its splendor — its art, music, color, and unity — while empowering participants to be creative, expressive, and proud of who they are.
