Flag-Raising Ceremony Signals Start of September Celebrations

San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, joined the rest of the nation on Tuesday, September 1st, for the annual Flag-Raising Ceremony. At 6AM, community members and local officials gathered at Central Park, where members of the Belize Coast Guard raised the Belizean flag, officially marking the start of the country’s September Celebrations.
The month’s patriotic festivities commemorate the Battle of St. George’s Caye and Belize’s Independence. This year’s theme, “Look At Me: I Am Belize @ 45,” highlights ordinary citizens, national pride, and the country’s diverse cultural heritage.
The ceremony began with a warm welcome to those in attendance and marked the first official event for the newly elected Miss San Pedro, Elizabeth Grace Sanchez. Councilor Adaly Ayuso, along with other members of the San Pedro Town Council, spoke about the importance of the September Celebrations. Mayor Gualberto “Wally” Nuñez and Area Representative Honorable Andre Perez emphasized that Belizeans have another opportunity to celebrate the nation’s freedom. They called for unity and encouraged everyone to celebrate safely and responsibly.
Members of the Belize Coast Guard then conducted a formal march before raising the flag with precision and pride, symbolizing national unity and patriotism.
The ceremony signaled the start of events planned throughout September. Activities continue with the National Day of Prayer on September 3rd, followed by the popular Fire Engine Parade and block party on September 9th. The Battle of St. George’s Caye will be commemorated on September 10th with uniform parades held across the country.
In San Pedro, the traditional Central American Night (Noche Centroamericana) will be held on September 12th at the Honorable Louis Sylvestre Sporting Complex, also known as Saca Chispas. The event celebrates the independence of Belize’s neighboring Central American countries and Mexico.
National Service Day will be observed on September 19th, followed by the Independence Eve Festival and fireworks at Saca Chispas on September 20th, beginning at 10:30PM.
Independence Day activities on September 21st will begin with Jouvert at 4AM, followed by the Independence Day Parade, with participants lining up at 1PM.
The island community is warmly invited to participate in the activities commemorating Belize’s important historical milestones and the nation’s 45th anniversary of Independence.