163rd Anniversary of the Abolition of Slavery to be commemorated at the Belvedere Plantation

The Government of Sint Maarten will host its official Emancipation Day ceremony on July 1st, 2026, marking the 163rd Anniversary of the Abolition of Slavery. Organized by the Department of Culture, the event will take place from 8:00 am to 10:00 am at the Belvedere Plantation on the Oyster Pond Road in Philipsburg. The program is set to feature official addresses, poetry, cultural song and dance performances, information tours, and a historical presentation of the plantation. The annual ceremony aims to raise awareness and unite the community to reflect on the abolition of slavery. Residents and guests are invited, with a special shuttle bus service available due to limited parking.