This past weekend was nothing short of phenomenal here in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye. I had the absolute joy of attending the San Pedro Marching Bands Appreciation Show, an event organized to show love and support for our incredible San Pedro High School Marching Band and San Pedro Roman Catholic School Marching Band. And let me tell you — what a show it was!
After Bandfest 2025, where San Pedro High, the defending champions, brought home a hard-fought second-place trophy and the RC School band, despite their stunning performance, didn’t place after last year’s third-place win, there were definitely some heavy hearts among our young musicians. Even though everyone back home was immensely proud, the band members came back feeling like they had somehow let the island down. Many Belizeans, including myself, couldn’t believe the results — there was a strong feeling that SPHS had delivered a winning performance, and RC certainly deserved a spot on the podium too.
Bandfest, held on April 12 in Independence Village, came with its fair share of challenges for our marching bands. Coordinating travel, finding overnight accommodations, and shipping large instruments, costumes, and props is no small feat! Parents voiced serious concerns about the condition of the stadium — it lacked basic cleanliness and amenities — and there were whispers that our San Pedro delegation wasn’t exactly given the warmest welcome. It was heartbreaking to hear, knowing how much heart and soul these students poured into their performances.
We LOVE our Marching Bands
But San Pedro is all about community and resilience. In true island spirit, we decided to lift our young musicians’ spirits the best way we know how — with overwhelming love and appreciation. An Appreciation Show was quickly put together, allowing both marching bands to proudly showcase their Bandfest presentations right here at home.
From the moment the parade started, it was pure magic. The streets were lined with proud islanders, cheering and waving as our marching bands made their way to Ambergris Stadium. And wow — when I say the stadium was packed, I mean packed! You could feel the pride in the air. The music, the dancing, the dazzling costumes — it was simply breathtaking. Every note played, every move danced was met with thunderous applause and cheers that could probably be heard all the way to the reef!
The night ended with the San Pedro Town Council honoring both bands with trophies, and special awards were given to the choreographers, band leaders, and organizers who made it all possible. Watching the smiles on the students’ faces, seeing them bask in the love they so rightly deserved, honestly brought tears to my eyes.
It was a spectacular, soul-filling event, and I am beyond grateful to have witnessed such a powerful moment for our island community.
HUGE applause to both our schools — SPHS and RC — for working so hard and representing San Pedro with such professionalism, heart, and pure talent. The music, the dance, the costumes — JUST WOW! You all are true champions in our eyes. Keep shining, keep marching, and keep making us proud!
San Pedro High School Marching Band
San Pedro RC Marching Band
