GREAT BAY--Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunication (TEATT) Grisha Heyliger-Marten is calling on St. Maarten's business community to take a more active role in decorating and beautifying the island ahead of St. Martin Day and the Christmas season, emphasizing that creating a festive and welcoming atmosphere should be a shared effort between government, businesses and residents.
Speaking during the Council of Ministers' weekly briefing on Wednesday, October 28, the Minister encouraged businesses to decorate their storefronts, display the island's colors and contribute to a visible celebration of St. Maarten's cultural identity. She stressed that although the main St. Martin Day celebrations on November 11 will take place on the French side this year, businesses and communities on the Dutch side should demonstrate their pride in the island.
"Although this year's main celebrations will take place on the French side, St. Martin Day belongs to all of us. Our pride in this island does not stop at the border," Heyliger-Marten said.
The Minister explained that the approaching holiday period presents an opportunity for the business sector to help transform commercial areas and neighborhoods into more attractive, welcoming spaces for residents and visitors. She urged establishments of all sizes to participate, noting that even modest decorations and displays can contribute to the overall atmosphere.
"I would therefore like to see more businesses decorating their establishments, displaying our national colors, and showing their love for the country we call home," she said.
According to Heyliger-Marten, the benefits extend beyond the celebrations themselves. A more festive and visually appealing environment can enhance the visitor experience, contribute positively to the island's tourism product and reinforce the sense of community associated with St. Martin Day.
"These may seem like small gestures, but collectively they make a tremendous difference. They create a welcoming atmosphere for residents and visitors alike, enhance our tourism product, and remind us of the importance of celebrating our identity," the Minister stated.
Heyliger-Marten also encouraged businesses to maintain that festive spirit beyond St. Martin Day and into the Christmas season, rather than treating the two occasions as separate opportunities for decoration and community participation.
She acknowledged that government intends to contribute to the holiday atmosphere but cautioned that its efforts will be constrained by limited financial resources. While no specific decoration plans or budget allocations were announced, the Minister indicated that government would do what it could to bring festive cheer to communities.
The Minister emphasized, however, that government spending alone should not determine how the island looks and feels during the holidays. She believes the combined contributions of businesses, residents and government can create a more noticeable impact than relying on public resources alone.
"Imagine the difference we can make if every business contributes just a little," she said.
Her appeal places particular emphasis on community pride and the role of the private sector in maintaining an attractive destination. Rather than framing holiday decorations solely as a government responsibility, Heyliger-Marten is encouraging businesses to recognize their own contribution to the island's appearance, atmosphere and visitor experience.
"Let us take pride in our surroundings, showcase our island, and give our residents and visitors something to smile about this holiday season," the Minister said.
Minister urges caution during Halloween festivities
The Minister also used the opportunity to encourage residents to celebrate Halloween safely and responsibly, particularly as families, children and other members of the community prepare to participate in weekend activities. She cautioned that certain costumes, masks and pranks could cause genuine fear, especially among young children, seniors and individuals who may not immediately recognize that someone is taking part in Halloween festivities.
Heyliger-Marten urged participants to avoid conduct that could be mistaken for a genuine threat, create unnecessary panic or result in avoidable calls to emergency services. She also reminded parents and guardians to supervise their children closely and encouraged motorists to exercise additional caution in areas where people may be walking or gathering.
The Minister further advised those planning to consume alcohol during Halloween celebrations to arrange safe transportation home.
"As we head into Halloween weekend, I want to encourage everyone who plans to participate in the festivities to enjoy themselves, but to do so safely and responsibly," Heyliger-Marten said.
