San Pedro marked another small but meaningful milestone on Thursday, February 5th, with the official opening of the new Artisan Market, a purpose-built space designed to celebrate local creativity while enhancing the island’s tourism product. The inauguration ceremony was hosted by the Belize Tourism Board and brought together community leaders, government officials, artisans, and residents.
Completed in January 2026, the new artisan market offers a more spacious, organized, and welcoming environment for local vendors. It is expected to give artisans a dignified place to earn a living while allowing visitors to experience authentic Belizean craftsmanship, culture, and creativity in one central location. The project was carried out through a collaboration between the Belize Tourism Board, the Ministry of Tourism, and the Belize Rural South Area Representative, underscoring a shared commitment to community-based tourism.
Artisan Market to Improve Visitor Experience
San Pedro Mayor Wally Nuñez described the market as a space built for the people of San Pedro. “This morning, we’re proud to welcome you to the opening of our artisan market, a space that celebrates local talent, culture, and opportunity,” he said. He thanked the Belize Tourism Board, Area Representative Hon. Andre Perez, and Minister of Tourism Hon. Anthony Mahler for their support, while emphasizing that the market belongs to the artisans and vendors who bring it to life. Mayor Nuñez encouraged the community and visitors alike to support local producers and enjoy the vibrant culture reflected throughout the market.
Belize Rural South Area Representative, Hon. Andre Perez highlighted the significance of the project, calling it a first for San Pedro. He noted that markets are among the must-visit places in any community, alongside parks, churches, and local bakeries. “This artisan market is a space created by and for our people,” Perez said, recognizing the work of vendors, wood carvers, painters, jewelers, and food producers whose skills carry generations of culture, resilience, and pride. He encouraged residents and visitors to see each purchase not just as a souvenir, but as an investment in local families, heritage, and the Belizean way of life.
Perez also stressed shared responsibility in maintaining the market. He urged everyone, vendors, customers, and visitors, to take pride in the space and help keep it clean and welcoming. “When we support our own, we strengthen our economy and preserve our identity,” he added.
Minister of Tourism Anthony Mahler echoed the focus on community-centered development, noting that many tourism projects implemented over the past few years have been designed to better integrate local people into the tourism industry. He emphasized that initiatives like the Artisan Market improve the overall visitor experience while creating meaningful earning opportunities for Belizean families. Mahler reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to continued collaboration with the Town Council, Area Representatives, and communities, and hinted at additional components and future projects planned for San Pedro and Caye Caulker.
With its official opening, the San Pedro Artisan Market now stands as a new hub for creativity, entrepreneurship, and cultural pride, one that reflects the heart of the community while offering residents and visitors something truly authentic to take home.
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