The Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony in San Pedro Town, which took place on December 8, 2024, was a vibrant celebration marking the beginning of the festive season for the community. This annual event was held in Central Park and drew families, locals, and visitors eager to embrace the holiday spirit.
The event began with a short parade featuring the San Pedro High School (SPHS) Marching Band, which made its way from the Honorable Luis Sylvestre Sporting Complex to Central Park for the main ceremony. The ceremony started around 6PM, with attendees gathering in anticipation of the tree lighting. The atmosphere was filled with excitement as Mayor Gualberto “Wally” Nuñez delivered a heartfelt address. His speech emphasized unity and hope within the community while reflecting on the challenges and successes of the past year. He encouraged everyone to embrace the joy of the season and to support local initiatives aimed at improving the town’s infrastructure and community services.
As part of the evening’s entertainment, the San Pedro Dance Academy showcased their talents with festive dances that captivated the audience. The SPHS Marching Band also contributed to the lively atmosphere with their colorful performances. 
Additionally, the Roman Catholic Primary School delivered an impressive performance and musician Chelsy Castro provided live music, filling the air with holiday tunes that encouraged everyone to sing along.
The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the lighting of the Christmas tree. After a countdown led by Mayor Nuñez, the tree illuminated Central Park in a dazzling display of lights, creating a magical ambiance. This year’s tree featured a modern design adorned with colorful decorations that evoked joy and admiration from attendees. The choice of design had been a topic of discussion in previous years, but this year it received enthusiastic approval from both locals and visitors alike.
The event served as a platform for community engagement, where families dressed in festive attire mingled and enjoyed refreshments from local vendors. Children were particularly delighted by the various activities organized in the park, including photo opportunities with the festive decorations that had been set up. These installations not only provided great spots for photos but also reinforced themes of togetherness and celebration during this special time of year.
Following the tree-lighting ceremony, San Pedro is set to continue its festive celebrations with various events leading up to Christmas. Notably, the lighted boat parade, featuring boats adorned with lights and festive decorations, is scheduled for December 14th. This event promises to be another highlight of the holiday season, bringing together residents and tourists for an evening of fun and celebration.
The Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony in San Pedro on December 8 was more than just an event; it was a celebration of community spirit, joy, and hope. With engaging performances, heartfelt speeches, and a stunning tree lighting, it marked a memorable start to the holiday season in this beautiful Belizean town.
