December Events in Belize You Can Enjoy During Vacation

Dates: First week of December

Locations: Belize City, San Pedro, Belmopan, Caye Caulker, Dangriga

The holiday season officially begins with tree-lighting ceremonies held in major towns and villages. These community events feature carol singing by school choirs, dance performances, fireworks, food booths, and plenty of Belizean Christmas music—especially Brukdown and Paranda.

Families, couples, and first-time visitors will love the charming, small-town feel of these events. They’re free to attend and offer a warm introduction to Belize’s festive culture.

Date: Second Saturday of December

Location: San Pedro, Ambergris Caye

One of the most iconic December events in Belize, the San Pedro Holiday Boat Parade lights up the coastline with brilliantly decorated boats cruising along the waterfront. Visitors line the beaches and docks to watch the spectacle while enjoying live music, food stalls, and holiday craft markets.

A panel of judges awards prizes for the most creative boats, and the town celebrates with fireworks afterward. If you’re staying on Ambergris Caye, this event is an absolute must.

Date: Mid-December

Location: Placencia Village

The laid-back village of Placencia hosts one of the most elegant December events in Belize: the Mistletoe Ball. This semi-formal charity gala includes dinner, live bands, dancing, and holiday cocktails. Leading up to the event, the village also hosts a festive holiday market where artisans sell jewelry, crafts, wood carvings, soaps, holiday decorations, and Belizean treats.

It’s perfect for couples or travelers looking for a charming coastal holiday experience.

Date: December 24

Location: Downtown Belize City

The Christmas Bram is a beloved Creole tradition that brings locals and visitors together for a night of dancing, singing, and old-school musical performances. Expect lively Brukdown music, street drumming, Creole storytelling, and authentic Christmas foods like black fruit cake, ham, and rum popo (Belize’s version of eggnog).

If you want to immerse yourself in Belizean tradition, this event is a highlight of the season.

Dates: December 26–30

Location: Maya communities in Toledo District

Late December is one of the best times to visit southern Belize, especially for travelers interested in Maya heritage. Many local communities stage traditional ceremonial dances, including the revered Deer Dance, which tells symbolic stories through costume, drum rhythms, and ancient choreography.

These events often include craft sales, food booths, cacao demonstrations, traditional clothing displays, and cultural storytelling. It’s an excellent opportunity for cultural travelers and photographers.

Dates: Mid to late December (varies yearly)

Location: Burrell Boom Village, Belize District

This festival celebrates the Creole heritage of Belize with a full lineup of local music, dancing, and delicious food. You’ll find vendors selling cassava bread, cakes, tamales, plantain dishes, toys, clothing, and handmade decorations.

Alongside the festivities, there are games for kids, live bands, storytelling sessions, and drumming workshops. It’s a wholesome, family-friendly event perfect for learning about Creole traditions.

Dates: December 23–25

Location: Hopkins, Stann Creek District

Hopkins Village, the cultural heart of the Garifuna community, turns into a musical paradise leading up to Christmas. Every night features live Paranda and Punta music, drumming circles, dance performances, and community gatherings.

Visitors can enjoy delicious Garifuna dishes like hudut, sere, and cassava bread while joining the celebration. This is one of the best events for travelers seeking immersive cultural experiences.

Date: December 26

Location: Burrell Boom Village

Boxing Day in Belize is filled with excitement as hundreds gather for the traditional horse races. This lively event includes food stands, drinks, betting booths, and plenty of cheering as the horses sprint around the track.

It’s perfect for families, sports enthusiasts, and anyone wanting to see a beloved Belizean pastime up close.

Dates: December 20–23

Location: Punta Gorda Town

Southern Belize hosts one of the most charming holiday fairs in the country. The Punta Gorda Christmas Fair brings together Maya, Garifuna, and Creole vendors selling crafts, jewelry, herbal products, textiles, and delicious traditional foods.

There are also games, live music, children’s activities, and dance presentations—making it one of the best community events to visit in Toledo District.

Dates: Every Saturday in December

Location: San Ignacio Town, Cayo District

The San Ignacio Market is famous year-round, but December adds a festive twist. Vendors bring seasonal fruits like oranges, tangerines, sorrel, and craboo, along with holiday treats, spices, chocolates, and handmade ornaments.

Live musicians, local artists, and food stalls create a vibrant and colorful experience. It’s an excellent spot to support small businesses and try Belizean flavors.

Date: December 31

Locations:

• San Pedro
• Belize City
• Placencia
• Caye Caulker

New Year’s Eve—known locally as Old Year’s Night—is one of the biggest celebrations in Belize. Every major destination hosts fireworks, beach parties, live music shows, and midnight countdowns.