10 Major Belize Festivals, Events, and Holidays in 2024

The sub-tropical Belize is a Central American country that acts as a link between North and South America. Countries bordering Belize are Mexico in the north and Guatemala in the west and south. On its east, Belize faces the Caribbean Sea. Let’s discuss ten major Belize festivals and events.

This exotic location has made it a global tourist destination. It enjoys a maritime climate, maintaining equable temperatures due to its location. 

1. New Year’s Day – January

New Year’s Day is a public holiday in Belize. It’s the day when people stroll around and enjoy fun activities. Belize celebrates New Year with fireworks, dynamites, and sparkles. They have a tradition of bursting firecrackers non-stop. People see this as a day for recreation and socializing with family and friends.

2. Fiesta de Carnaval – February

Fiesta de Carnaval, or Belize carnival, is celebrated yearly during the week before Lent (the season of fasting and praying for 40 days). They held the festival on Ambergris Caye in the bustling town of San Pedro.

Belizeans keep their spirits high and participate in singing, painting contests, and flour fighting. Special group dance competitions, “Comparsas,” and lively parades are held weekly.

3. Baron Bliss Day – March

Baron Bliss Day, a national festival, commemorates a British resident. Baron Bliss died while he was vacationing in Belize. He donated 2 million Belize dollars (approx) for constructing libraries, schools, and institutions like the famous Baron Bliss Institute. Horse racing, boat races, and parties are held on this day to honor him.

4. Commonwealth Day – May

In Belize, in 1981, they joined the Commonwealth. They celebrate 54 independent states under the British Monarchy on this commonwealth day or Sovereign’s Day. A flag-hoisting ceremony and reading of the queen’s message are held in schools and universities to commemorate Sovereign’s Day. National Sports Council organizes horse and cycle races.

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5. Lobsterfest – June

Lobsterfest is celebrated to mark the beginning of the lobster season in Belize. This crustacean festival is widely celebrated in San Pedro, Placencia, and Caye Caulker. Tourists can enjoy many lobster delicacies along with living music and dancing. 

6. Mango Festival – July

The Hopkins Mango Festival is a two-day family event. It’s held on Stann Creek beach, where different stalls serving mango delicacies are established. People enjoy a variety of mango-made dishes, candies, jams, jellies, and drinks. Many competitions and games are organized for visitors.

7. Costa Maya Festival – August

Costa Maya is the most colorful and significant festival in Belize. This three-day event is celebrated in San Pedro. Visitors can enjoy live music, cultural performances, entertainment, traditional cuisine, games, etc. The famous Miss Costa Maya International pageant is held during this festival. Their primary aim is to promote Mundo Maya countries through folklore music, dance, food, etc. 

8. Belize Independence Day – September

Belize became the only independent Central American British colony on 21st September 1981. Every year on this day, the people of Belize gather throughout the country. They celebrate their beautiful nation’s culture, history, people, and independence. Flag-hoisting ceremonies and parades are a part of this event.

9. San Pedro’s Township Day – November

Township Day commemorates the transformation of the small village of San Pedro into a town on 27 November 1984 by the Belize government. The local government town board organizes annual events like boat races, parades, fishing competitions, and music to celebrate this day. 

10. Placencia Mistletoe Ball – December

The Placencia chapter of BTIA (Belize Tourism Industry Association) organizes the Mistletoe Ball yearly. It’s organized in a resort at Placencia at the end of December. Visitors put on their best outfits to enjoy the night. This glamorous party on the Placencia peninsula comprises music, dancing, food, and raffles.