George Price Day 2026: “Que viva George Price”

Belizeans gathered in Belize City today to honour the life and legacy of the father of the nation, George Cadle Price, during the annual George Price Day celebrations.

The event brought together government leaders, diplomats, students, and citizens, marking six years since the holiday was first declared and coinciding with the 75th anniversary of the People’s United Party (PUP).

Belize City Mayor Bernard Wagner opened the programme by reminding attendees that Price’s contribution remains a living responsibility. “We inherited the freedoms he secured, the institutions they built, and the responsibility to make independence meaningful in every generation that follows,” Wagner said.

Prime Minister John Briceño paid tribute to Price as a leader guided by faith and service, describing him as “a servant of the people, and a godly man guided by strong Christian values.” He recalled Price’s role in leading the “peaceful, constructive Belizean revolution” that secured independence in 1981. Briceño closed his address with a blessing for the nation and a tribute to Belize’s founding leader by saying, “Que viva George Price!”

The programme also featured readings from Price’s historic 1950 Battlefield Park address, in which he challenged colonial rule and economic injustice. “The people of Belize have awakened from the sleep of false hopes and empty promises,” Price declared at the time.

The celebrations were held alongside activities connected to the PUP at 75 exhibition, which documents the party’s role in Belize’s political development and independence movement. Minister of Culture Francis Fonseca said the exhibition has already attracted thousands of visitors nationwide and is intended to preserve Belize’s political and historical memory for future generations. The exhibit, launched in Orange Walk in September 2025, is scheduled to conclude in San Pedro next month.

Speaking with reporters after the ceremony, Briceño reflected on Price’s personal influence on his own life. “One of the things he always told me is that public service is the highest call for any Belizean,” he said.

Beyond the official programme, businesses, organisations, and individuals posted tributes on social media in celebration of the day. Minister of Immigration, Governance and Labour Kareem Musa also marked the occasion with the installation of a commemorative billboard at the intersection of Princess Margaret Drive and Coney Drive.

A short ceremony was held at Nazarene High School, attended by students from nearby primary schools, and concluded with the unveiling of the billboard followed by a firework display.