The Government of Sint Maarten is inviting residents and visitors to join in the 66th Annual St. Martin Day Celebration on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, at the Jocelyn Arndell Festival Village.
This year’s theme, “Sankofa — Learning from the past, to build for the future,” highlights the island’s shared heritage and the importance of honoring historical roots while embracing progress.
Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina reflected on the significance of the day, calling it “the essence of who we are — one people, one island, one destiny,” and encouraged continued unity and cooperation between both sides of the island.
The celebration will begin with traditional activities, including the “Ringing of the Joy Bells” and the annual wreath-laying ceremony at the Bellevue Border Monument. At noon, the SMaatn National Cultural Parade will journey from Jose Lake Sr./John Cooper Ball Park to the Festival Village, leading into a full day of cultural showcases, speeches from dignitaries, and a cultural showcase featuring local artists and musicians until 11:45 pm.
Minister of Education, Culture, Youth & Sport, Melissa Gumbs, emphasized the spirit of unity and resilience, saying the observance is a “powerful reminder of who we are as a people — resilient, creative, and united by a shared history.”
Those unable to attend can follow the celebrations live on the Government of Sint Maarten and Department of Culture Facebook pages.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to fly their flags, wear the island’s colors, and join in celebrating St. Martin’s rich cultural heritage as the community looks toward a united future.