French Side to Celebrate St. Martin/St. Maarten Day with Official Program
IN BRIEF |
| - French Side to host the official St. Martin/St. Maarten Day celebrations. |
| - Celebration marks the 65th anniversary of the event initiated in 1959. |
| - Aims to honor the island's history, culture, and heritage. |
| - Events include an ecumenical service, a wreath-laying ceremony, and a parade. |
| - Afternoon activities include entertainment such as music, games, and dance shows. |
| - President Louis Mussington emphasizes unity and the island's resilience. |
This year, the French side of the island will take center stage as they host the official program for St. Martin/St. Maarten Day, a vibrant celebration marking its 65th anniversary. The event on November 11th promises a rich assembly of history, culture, and unity between the French and Dutch sides. From the early morning ecumenical service to the festive afternoon activities, the day is designed to bring together residents and visitors in a spirit of joy and shared heritage. As President Louis Mussington emphasizes, this day signifies much more than festivities; it is a testimony to the island's resilience and the strong bond between its people.
The celebration of St. Martin/St. Maarten Day is set to illuminate the beauty and unity of the island. This year, the French side takes center stage in organizing a vibrant program of festivities that promise to blend culture, history, and joyous celebration, inviting both residents and visitors to partake in a memorable experience.
Celebrating Unity and Heritage
The festivities commemorate a significant milestone, marking the 65th anniversary of the celebration initially brought to life by the island’s visionaries, Dr. Hubert Petit and Dr. Claude Wathey, on November 11, 1959. President of the Collectivité of Saint-Martin, Louis Mussington, emphasized the day’s importance as a time to honor the island's rich historical past and culture, urging the community to engage in the celebration with a spirit of harmony. "Let us remain confident and continue to build in cooperation for the future of our children. May the celebration of St. Martin Day bring you joy and serenity with your family and loved ones," stated Mussington.
The events are deeply steeped in tradition, underscoring the resilience and unity that have defined St. Martin throughout its history. The people of the island, known for their exceptional resilience, celebrate St. Martin Day with pride and fervor, strengthening ties and cherishing their culture.
A Day Full of Festivities
The day begins with an ecumenical service at Tabernacle Methodist Church in French Quarter at 8:00 am, setting a spiritual tone for the celebrations. Following the service, at 9:30 am, a wreath-laying ceremony at the Border Monument in Belle Plaine serves as a solemn tribute, bringing both sides of the island together.
At 10:00 am, the excitement amplifies with the traditional parade of troupes. This vibrant display of colors and sounds captures the joie de vivre of St. Martin's residents and their dedication to preserving traditions. Subsequently, official speeches and a communal lunch will be held in the Thelbert Carti Stadium car park from 11:00 am onwards, fostering a sense of community and shared identity.
Entertainment and Activities
A collaboration with the Orleans Rising Sun Fête Committee promises afternoon activities and entertainment, starting at 12:00 pm. Highlights include performances by emcee Ricky Da Phoxx and DJ LIL Cuz, ensuring the crowd is entertained and engaged throughout the day. Other musical acts include DJ Kimanie, and games for all ages with Funtopia, contributing to a lively atmosphere.
The entertainment continues with captivating performances by Danseuse Kisheya, DJ Big Sexy, SXM Majorettes, Bottle Neck Crew, African dancers, Today Band, and the Madd Crew Dancers. Each act offers a glimpse into the diverse cultural expressions that make St. Martin unique.
Grand Evening Finale
As the sun sets, the energy continues to heighten with a stirring fashion show at 8:00 pm followed by Rhythm and Groove Dance Group taking the stage at 8:30 pm. The celebration concludes with a vibrant performance by the renowned Nuff Respect Band from 9:30 pm onwards, ensuring that the day ends on a high note.
Comparison of French Side Celebrations for St. Martin/St. Maarten Day
| Event Timing | Event Details |
| 8:00 AM | Ecumenical service at Tabernacle Methodist Church |
| 9:30 AM | Wreath-laying ceremony at Border Monument in Belle Plaine |
| 10:00 AM | Parade of troupes |
| 11:00 AM | Official speeches and lunch at Thelbert Carti Stadium car park |
| 12:00 PM | Afternoon activities begin with emcee Ricky Da Phoxx |
| 1:00 PM | DJ Kimanie performance |
| 3:00 PM | Games with Funtopia |
| 5:00 PM | DJ Big Sexy and SXM Majorettes |
| 8:00 PM | Fashion show followed by Rhythm and Groove Dance Group |
| 9:30 PM | Performance by Nuff Respect Band |
Morning Activities
- 8:00am - Ecumenical Service at Tabernacle Methodist Church
- 9:30am - Wreath-laying at Border Monument in Belle Plaine
- 10:00am - Parade of Troupes
- 11:00am - Official Speeches and Lunch at Thelbert Carti Stadium
Afternoon and Evening Entertainment
- 12:00pm - Activities with Ricky Da Phoxx and DJ LIL Cuz
- 1:00pm - DJ Kimanie
- 3:00pm - Games with Funtopia
- 4:30pm - Danseuse Kisheya
- 5:00pm - DJ Big Sexy
- 5:15pm - SXM Majorettes Performance
- 5:30pm - Bottle Neck Crew
- 6:30pm - African Dancers
- 6:15pm - Today Band Live
- 7:15pm - Madd Crew Dancers
- 8:00pm - Fashion Show
- 8:30pm - Rhythm and Groove Dance Group
- 9:30pm - Closing Performance by Nuff Respect Band