PHILIPSBURG:--- The 2026 Sint Maarten Biodiversity Fest has been officially scheduled and will take place over the weekend of April 25–26, 2026. The two-day event promises a fun-filled program featuring engaging activities designed to help participants discover the island and enjoy its incredible biodiversity.

The 2026 Biodiversity Fest is organized by the Nature Foundation Sint Maarten and sponsored by Vogelbescherming Nederland, with support from local partners including Les Fruits de Mer and The Scuba Shop. Several environmental organizations will partner with the Nature Foundation to promote environmental awareness on the island.

Residents and visitors of all ages are welcome to participate. However, many activities have limited capacity and require advanced registration.

The program includes three activities on Saturday and two on Sunday, offering a diverse range of experiences for participants.

“These events help a wider audience discover, learn about, and better understand the importance of maintaining healthy biodiversity,” stated the Nature Foundation Sint Maarten. “This annual event invites residents and visitors to explore and celebrate Sint Maarten’s rich biodiversity through a series of engaging and educational initiatives.”

The 2026 Sint Maarten Biodiversity Fest will kick off on Saturday, April 25, 2026, with a beginner-friendly hike to the natural pools in the Point Blanche area. Following the hike, a free shuttle will transport participants to Amuseum Naturalis, where attendees will take part in an interactive exploration of the world of snails and participate in the Endemic Species Festival activities. In the evening, participants can enjoy a family-friendly activity focused on exploring nocturnal animals and their habitats.

On Sunday, April 26, 2026, participants will gather at The Scuba Shop in Simpson Bay for a guided snorkeling tour to discover the island’s underwater ecosystems and their relationships with the coastal biodiversity. The festival will conclude later that day with an ocean documentary screening at Van Dorp Spaces in Simpson Bay.

For more information on the Biodiversity Fest or any other events, please visit our website (https://naturefoundationsxm.org/2026-biodiversity-fest/) and our social media pages. 

We are also available by email, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or call our office at +1 (721) 544-4267

PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):--- The Collective Prevention Services (CPS), COVID, would like to inform the general public that the clinic at the CPS Offices at the Vineyard Building Office Park in Philipsburg is open for COVID vaccines by appointment only, and the next available date is April 17.

The CPS clinic is open for COVID vaccines for persons aged 12 and older on Friday, April 17, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM.

Due to limited supply, CPS is requesting persons to call or email for an appointment by calling 914 (option 4) or 542-1570, or via email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

The booster is entirely free of charge and voluntary.

Please bring your vaccination card and a form of Identification (ID) when you have an appointment.
The COVID-19 virus has not disappeared. While the peak of the pandemic is in the past, the virus remains an active presence.
Routine prevention remains essential for public safety.

PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):---  With vibrant celebrations of Carnival 2026 now underway, the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (VSA), through Collective Prevention Services (CPS), is reminding vendors the public of the importance of safe food preparation and handling to prevent cases of gastroenteritis or other food-borne illnesses during the festive season.

With an abundance of food and beverages available from food kiosks, street vendors, booth holders, and home gatherings, CPS is urging residents and visitors alike to remain vigilant about food safety.

Gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the stomach and intestines, is commonly caused by viruses, bacteria, or foodborne toxins. Symptoms may include diarrhea, stomach cramps, vomiting, nausea, fever, and headaches. The most common signs are repeated episodes of vomiting and diarrhea within a 24-hour period.

Unsafe food handling poses a significant health risk, particularly for vulnerable groups such as infants, young children, pregnant women, the elderly, and persons with underlying medical conditions.

Gastroenteritis can spread easily when bacteria from contaminated hands, surfaces, or food is transferred to others. Poor hygiene practices, such as not washing hands after using the restroom, can lead to the contamination of utensils, food, and other commonly touched items.

CPS emphasizes the importance of proper hygiene practices to reduce the spread of illness. Members of the public are advised to wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water after using the restroom and before preparing or consuming food.

Surfaces such as kitchen counters should be cleaned regularly and disinfected using appropriate solutions. Practicing good cough etiquette and maintaining overall cleanliness are also essential preventive measures.

Food handlers and consumers are also reminded to prevent cross-contamination by keeping raw and cooked foods separate, washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly, and ensuring proper food storage.

Temperature control is critical—food should be kept out of the “danger zone” where bacteria can multiply rapidly. If food appears spoiled or has been exposed to improper temperatures, it should be discarded immediately.

Individuals diagnosed with gastroenteritis are advised to remain at home, follow medical guidance, and practice good hygiene to prevent spreading the illness to others. CPS encourages everyone to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves and the community.

As Carnival 2026 gets underway, CPS calls on all residents and visitors to prioritize food safety and hygiene. By taking simple preventive steps, the community can help ensure a safe, healthy, and enjoyable festive season for all.

For more information call CPS at 542-1122, 542-1222, 542-1322 and 542-1570; or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Department of Sports within the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth and Sport (MECYS) is pleased to announce the upcoming King’s Games (Koningsspelen) 2026, held in honor of His Royal Highness King Willem-Alexander Claus George Ferdinand of the Netherlands. The event will take place on Friday, April 17, 2026, across 19 elementary schools, engaging approximately 3,500 students.
The 2026 theme, “Everyone Fun” (Iedereen Plezier) emphasizes enjoyment as a key driver of physical activity and the development of lifelong healthy habits. This theme focuses on inclusivity and collective participation, encouraging not only students, but also teachers, parents, sports providers, and volunteers to contribute to making the day an energetic and festive celebration. Whether through sports participation, cheering, organizing, or supporting activities, everyone plays an important role in the success of the King’s Games.
To support the event, each participating school will receive a sports and party box containing materials designed to enhance activities and align with the theme of the day.
The King’s Games will begin with a healthy breakfast provided to all participating students in collaboration with Cake House Bakery. Following breakfast, schools and Physical Education teachers will lead a variety of fun, engaging, and physically active programs that have been carefully prepared to ensure an enjoyable experience for all participants.
Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sport, Ms. Melissa Gumbs, expressed her enthusiasm for the event, stating:
“We are excited to host the King’s Games once again and are encouraged by the enthusiasm shown by our schools and students. Promoting physical activity and healthy habits among children is essential to their overall well-being and development, and we remain committed to creating opportunities that support these goals.”
The Department of Sports extends its sincere appreciation to all participating schools and Physical Education teachers for their dedication and commitment in organizing this event. Special thanks are also extended to Cake House Bakery for their continued partnership and generous support in providing breakfast to the students.