Curaçao has never seen a moment like this. The island has officially qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, becoming the smallest country to qualify for the tournament. Across the island, the achievement sparked celebrations, pride in the streets and a surge of national energy associated with the sport, as locals simply call it. soccer.
This summer, that excitement will extend directly to one of the island’s hottest resorts. royal curacao sandals We are launching a limited-time guest program called . “Vacation Goals: Curaçao Edition,” It is designed to transform the global soccer tournament into an immersive Caribbean experience for travelers visiting the island during the tournament.
Run from From June 11 to July 19, 2026The program blends watch parties, cultural excursions and themed culinary experiences to give guests a way to experience Curaçao’s historic football moments while on vacation.
The result is part celebration, part cultural immersion, and part beach World Cup celebration.
Game Day in Paradise
During the tournament, Sandals Royal Curaçao will transform its beach resort setting into a gathering place for fans after the match.
The mass viewing event will feature live coverage of matches throughout the tournament, creating a lively viewing party where guests can cheer on their national teams while overlooking the Caribbean Sea. The resort will also install goal posts and provide soccer balls around the property to encourage guests to engage in informal matches and friendly competition between games.
Food and drink play a central role in the experience. The resort plans to offer rotating features. Game day menu inspired by the countries participating in the tournamentEach dish is interpreted through a Caribbean lens.
A special cocktail menu highlights the tournament’s host country. Canada, USA, Mexico — Includes themed drinks representing each destination. For guests who prefer non-alcoholic options, the lineup also includes zero-proof cocktails.
The overall goal is to capture the communal energy of the World Cup while combining it with the relaxed atmosphere of a Caribbean resort.
Explore Curaçao’s football culture
The experience is not limited to the resort.
Sandal’s picnic partner island route Begin a special guided experience called ‘. Curaçao Football Culture TourAvailable exclusively in June and July while the tournament is ongoing.
The four-hour tour focuses on the island’s deep connection to sport and national pride during this historic year.
One-stop included Ergilio Hato StadiumIt is the home stadium where the island’s best athletes train and compete. Your guide will share stories about the country’s football development, notable players and the road to World Cup qualification.
Guests will also explore: Historic streets of WillemstadIncluding colorful coastal areas HandelskadeMurals and local gathering places reflect the island’s vibrant culture. The walk includes photo opportunities highlighting Curaçao’s art, architecture, and football pride.
The tour concludes with a tasting experience. Chovolovo DistilleryThe birthplace of the island’s famous blue liqueur.
I booked my trip with Island Routes. Every Tuesday and Saturday from 10 AM to 2 PMDirect flights depart from Sandals Royal Curaçao throughout June and July.
Next-gen player support
The tournament spotlight is also tied into the island’s long-term plans.
through Sandals Foundation’s “Future Goals” ProgramPlastic waste collected locally is recycled into soccer equipment and donated to primary schools across Curaçao. The plan addresses environmental issues on the island while supporting youth activism.
The program reflects widespread enthusiasm for the national team’s World Cup qualifiers and the role sport plays in the community.
Unique moments in Curacao
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be held. Canada, USA, MexicoThis is the first time that the competition has been held in three countries.
The emergence of Curaçao adds an unexpected story to global competition. an island in the caribbean 150,000 inhabitants You’ll be taking to the field with some of the biggest football nations in the world.
This feeling of pride and celebration is exactly what Sandals Royal Curaçao wants travelers to feel when they arrive during the tournament.
Guests will still have access to the resort’s signature amenities, including beachfront suites, infinity pools, international restaurants, and access to the island’s beaches and cultural sites, but this summer there will be something more added to the ambience.
Every match becomes a shared event.
And in Curaçao, those shared moments are what create the joy of history.
