It had been several years since I last attended the Fishermen’s Mass, traditional breakfast, and boat procession for the Día de San Pedro festivities. This year, I decided it was time to return, and even better, I took my daughter along so she could experience this beautiful tradition for the very first time.
She absolutely loved it.
She later posted pictures on her Instagram feed which read: “It truly warmed my heart to see the community share and celebrate in such love for our home.” Hearing those words reminded me why these traditions are so important. I only wish more of our young people would attend cultural events like these. They are much more than celebrations. They tell the story of who we are, where we came from, and the values that continue to shape our island. They are beautiful, meaningful, and something every generation should experience at least once.
Dia de San Pedro Experience
Our day began much earlier than most people would ever consider waking up. The alarm went off at 3:00 a.m. so we could make it to the Fishermen’s Mass at 4:30 a.m. at San Pedro Roman Catholic Church. The special Mass is celebrated each year to ask for God’s blessings and protection over our fishermen, tour guides, and their families. Although dedicated to those who make their living from the sea, everyone is welcomed to attend.
After Mass, everyone gathered for a traditional Belizean breakfast outside church (Friendship Park), one of my favorite parts of the morning. It wasn’t just about the food. It was about seeing families, friends, old fishermen, young children, and visitors all sitting together, sharing stories before heading to the waterfront for the next part of the celebration.
Soon afterward, boat owners began gathering at Central Park for the annual boat procession. Led by the vessel carrying the statue of San Pedro, dozens of decorated boats slowly cruised south toward Ramon’s Village before turning north to Boca del Rio. This year a second procession group left from the San Pablo Area Pier and traveled under the bridge to meet the other procession at Boca del Rio. From there all the boats returned to Central Park. There, Father Eduardo Montemayor blessed each boat and those aboard, praying for safe seas, abundant catches, and protection throughout the year.
Watching the colorful boats glide across the calm Caribbean Sea while spectators waved from the shore is always a moving sight. It is one of those traditions that instantly takes you back to the days when San Pedro was a tiny fishing village and life revolved around the sea.
Throughout the week, the San Pedro Roman Catholic Church hosted several Dia de San Pedro family-friendly activities, including a kite-flying competition, a gala dinner, and a family dance and a 9-day Novena honoring St. Peter and St. Paul, continuing a tradition that has been part of our community for generations.
Meanwhile, the San Pedro Town Council added to the festivities with a large community fiesta at the Saca Chispas Field. The evening featured a comedic performance by a visiting Mexican entertainer, dance presentations by the San Pedro Dance Academy, DJ entertainment, and a lively concert by international artist Demphra of La Factoria.
It’s easy to get caught up in the fast pace of modern San Pedro. The island continues to grow, new businesses open every month, and life seems busier than ever. But mornings like this remind me that no matter how much we change, our traditions remain the heart of our community.
These are the experiences that make San Pedro unlike anywhere else in Belize. They strengthen our identity as islanders and offer visitors an authentic glimpse into the culture that has shaped our home for generations.
If you’ve never attended the Fishermen’s Mass and boat procession, I encourage you to set your alarm next year. Yes, waking up at 3:00 in the morning is tough… but I promise you, it’s worth every minute.
