San Pedro Town ushered in the Christmas season on Thursday, December 8th, with the annual lighting of the Christmas tree at Central Park. The event, organized by the San Pedro Town Council (SPTC), was held under the theme ‘Glow’, wishing everyone happy holidays as they prepare to celebrate with their loved ones this time of the year.
The anticipated event was close to being postponed after last-minute changes forced organizers to re-do the Christmas tree design. The initial look featured a colorful tree with long orange, pink, and yellow stripes designed to match the Glow theme. But on Thursday morning, workers were observed busy at Central Park taking the tree down as fast as they could. The SPTC did not explain the last-minute change, but according to witnesses, many people were dissatisfied with the tree’s design this year.
Despite this hiccup, hours later, beyond the 7PM scheduled lighting ceremony, the Christmas tree transformed into a traditional green with minimal décor, with a short ceremony occurring just before 8PM. Mayor Gualberto ‘Wally’ Nuñez welcomed everyone to this year’s event, wishing everyone a Merry Christmas. “Let’s celebrate with our loved ones but most importantly, let’s share the love,” he said. “We must also ask our community for unity. San Pedro is known as a united community that weathers any storm or obstacles thrown at us; it is that unity that I ask for as we venture into 2023. I want to thank the events committee for their dedication and all the staff who came out this afternoon and throughout the week to assist and ensure we were ready.” Mayor Nuñez ended his remarks by saying that while in Belize, people cannot say ‘let it snow,’ they can say ‘let it glow.’ Moments after, the countdown started, and seconds later, the Christmas tree illuminated the surrounding with a deep fluorescent light.
Afterward, the San Pedro Dance Academy entertained the crowd, and Chelsey Castro sang Christmas carols while playing the ukulele. After the short program, those in attendance were thanked and invited to take pictures with the Christmas tree. Near and around the tree were small stages with Christmas-themed figures like Santa Claus, favorite spots for photos that evening.
