Garifuna Settlement Day: A Celebration of Resilience and Culture
Every November 19th, Belize comes alive with the vibrant rhythm and colors of Garifuna Settlement Day. This national holiday commemorates the arrival of the Garifuna people to the shores of Belize in 1802, bringing with them a rich heritage of music, dance, and storytelling. The celebrations are held mainly in the southern districts of Dangriga, Hopkins, and Punta Gorda, but their reverberations are felt across the entire country.
Want to indulge your senses? Start your day early with a reenactment of the Garifuna’s arrival at the coast—complete with decorated canoes and drumming. From here, the festivities roll into parades, live music with traditional Garifuna instruments like the maracas and drums, and mouthwatering dishes including hudut (a savory coconut fish stew). Ever danced to the euphoric rhythms of punta? This is your chance to join the locals and immerse yourself in the pulsating culture.
San Pedro Lobster Fest: A Feast to Remember
San Pedro’s annual Lobster Fest is a seafood lover’s dream come true. Held every June to mark the start of the lobster fishing season, this week-long festival transforms the island into a gourmet paradise. Picture yourself sampling lobster in every form imaginable—grilled lobster, lobster ceviche, lobster tacos… the list goes on.
The event isn’t just about food, though. San Pedro Lobster Fest includes live music, fun competitions like the Lobster Crawl, and events like the grand Beach Bash. Want to experience the fusion of Belizean flavors, island vibes, and culinary creativity? This is the festival for you. And don’t forget to vote for your favorite Lobster Fest dish—your taste buds will thank you!
Belize Carnival: An Explosion of Color and Spirit
If you’re planning a trip in September, Belize Carnival should be on your itinerary. Held as part of the national September Celebrations, this event is the definition of fun and extravagance. Picture streets filled with dancers in dazzling costumes, their every movement synchronized with the beats of soca and calypso music.
The Carnival Road March is a parade like no other, with vibrant floats and performers representing different cultural and community groups. Feeling brave? Join the revelers in their energetic dance through the streets of Belize City! Pair this with Independence Day celebrations on September 21st, and you’re in for a double dose of Belize’s indefatigable spirit.
Cacao Festival: A Chocolate Lover’s Paradise
Chocolate enthusiasts, this one’s for you. Hosted in the Toledo District every May, the Cacao Festival (also known as Chocolate Festival) celebrates the ancient traditions of cacao cultivation in Belize. This event honors the Maya heritage, where cacao was not only a delicacy but also a sacred, ceremonial food.
During the festival, you’ll discover how cacao transforms into delectable chocolate through live demonstrations, tastings, and workshops. Local artisans showcase their crafts, while cultural performances of Maya music and dance enrich the experience. Ever thought of pairing chocolate with rum or wine? This festival will show you how Belize takes indulgence to the next level!
La Ruta Maya River Challenge: A Test of Endurance and Tradition
The La Ruta Maya River Challenge is as much about cultural heritage as it is about adventure. This grueling four-day canoe race spans 170 miles along the scenic Belize River, starting in San Ignacio and ending in Belize City. Not for the faint of heart, this race draws competitors from around the globe, testing their stamina and skill.
But don’t worry if you’re not the competitive type—you can enjoy the spectacle from the riverbanks alongside cheering locals. The race is a breathtaking journey through some of Belize’s most stunning landscapes, peppered with historical sites and rich wildlife. Supporting this event is also an excellent way to engage with the community spirit that defines Belize.
September Celebrations: Honoring Patriotism and Freedom
September in Belize isn’t a month—it’s a mood. Packed with patriotic pride, the festivities kick off on September 10th with St. George’s Caye Day, commemorating a pivotal 1798 victory over Spanish forces. The celebrations roll on until Independence Day on September 21st.
Highlights include street parades, flag-waving crowds, live concerts, and fireworks that light up the Caribbean skies. The entire country gets swept up in the jubilant energy, making it an incredible time to visit. Don’t miss the chance to join the « Jump Up Parade » or enjoy the delicious street food sold by local vendors during this festive period. It’s a whirlwind of history and high spirits, all wrapped up in Belizean charm.
Deer Dance Festival: Preserving Maya Traditions
The Deer Dance Festival offers a rare glimpse into the ancient traditions of Belize’s Maya community. This sacred event, typically held in the Toledo District, is a ritualistic ceremony that involves elaborate costumes, music, and storytelling. Participants don masks representing deer, hunters, and jaguars, reenacting tales of survival and harmony with nature passed down through generations.
The festival is much more than a spectacle—it’s a spiritual experience rooted in community and ancestral connection. Visitors are often welcomed to observe and learn about the deep significance of the rituals. If you’re looking for an authentic and heartfelt cultural experience, the Deer Dance Festival delivers on all fronts.
Want to Discover Even More?
From large national events to intimate local traditions, Belize is overflowing with opportunities to celebrate culture, history, and community. Whether you’re here for the music, the food, the dance, or simply the convivial atmosphere, there’s a festival waiting for you to explore. Are you ready to mark your calendar and dive into Belize’s most unforgettable cultural experiences?