Quick Links: About Us - Contact Us
Christmas in Belize is a colorful mix of Caribbean warmth, cultural traditions, and lively community celebrations. While many travelers associate December with snow and sweaters, Belize offers something entirely different—outdoor holiday fairs, beachside Christmas markets, live music, and tables filled with traditional festive food. From island towns to inland cultural hubs, the Belize Christmas market scene is one of the most joyful ways to experience the holidays in the country.
If you’re visiting during the festive season or planning a December trip, these markets and fairs give you the perfect chance to shop for handcrafted gifts, taste seasonal dishes, and connect with local traditions. In this guide, we’ve rounded up the Top 5 Belize Christmas Markets & Holiday Fairs in major towns, including typical dates, vendor highlights, and must-buy crafts and foods.
What Makes Belize Christmas Markets So Special?
A Belize holiday fair is more than a shopping experience—it’s a community celebration. Each town brings its own cultural flavor to the festivities, blending Maya, Creole, Mestizo, and Garifuna traditions into one joyful event. Instead of large commercial stalls, most markets feature small local vendors, artisans, home bakers, and family-run food stands.
You’ll hear Christmas carols mixed with punta rhythms, smell fresh tamales steaming in banana leaves, and see children lining up to meet Santa under palm trees. The focus is on handmade items, traditional recipes, and shared holiday spirit rather than mass-produced goods. That authenticity is what makes Belize December events so memorable for both travelers and locals.
1. San Pedro Christmas Market – Ambergris Caye
Location: Central Park, San Pedro
Typical Dates: Mid-December (usually 2–3 days before December 25)
The San Pedro Christmas Market is one of the most popular Belize Christmas markets for visitors, thanks to its lively island atmosphere and beachfront setting. As the sun sets, Central Park transforms into a glowing holiday scene filled with lights, music, and vendors from across Ambergris Caye.
Vendor Types
- Handmade jewelry
- Wooden carvings
- Island-themed artwork
- Organic skincare and coconut-based products
- Hand-painted ornaments
Must-Buy Crafts
- Conch shell décor
- Handwoven beach bags
- Belize-flag souvenirs
- Driftwood Christmas decorations
Must-Try Foods
- Fresh tamales
- BBQ chicken skewers
- Coconut tarts
- Rum cake
- Fresh fruit juices and holiday punch
Why Visit – This market is ideal for travelers who want to mix holiday shopping with nightlife, beach walks, and festive island energy. Many visitors combine the market with dinner at nearby restaurants or a nighttime stroll along the waterfront.
2. Belize City Christmas Village & Holiday Fair
Location: Battlefield Park or Civic Center Area
Typical Dates: Early to mid-December
The Belize City Christmas Village is the largest and most traditional Belize holiday fair in the country. It draws families from all districts and usually runs for several days with nightly events, concerts, and holiday shows.
Vendor Types
- Clothing and accessories
- Toys and children’s gifts
- Local snacks and baked goods
- Handcrafted décor
- Holiday-themed merchandise
Must-Buy Items
- Wooden nativity sets
- Hand-stitched stockings
- Holiday candles
- Belize-themed Christmas ornaments
Must-Try Foods
- Relleno
- Boil-up
- Pan de coco
- Hot chocolate
- Sorrel drink
Why Visit – This is the best market for families traveling with children. With light displays, a Santa zone, and school choir performances, it feels like a classic Christmas celebration—Belize style. It’s also the most diverse market in terms of product variety.
3. San Ignacio Christmas Market – Cayo District
Location: Macal River Park or San Ignacio Town Center
Typical Dates: Mid-December
San Ignacio’s Christmas Market stands out for its focus on Maya crafts, natural materials, and eco-friendly products. The atmosphere here is relaxed and community-driven, making it perfect for travelers who love culture and handcrafted goods.
Vendor Types
- Maya pottery
- Embroidered textiles
- Natural fiber baskets
- Herbal remedies
- Handmade soaps and candles
Must-Buy Items
- Handwoven table runners
- Clay cooking pots
- Traditional beadwork
- Wooden kitchen tools
Must-Try Foods
- Corn tamales
- Escabeche
- Cassava cakes
- Fresh fruit wines
Why Visit – This market is best for travelers who want authentic souvenirs with cultural meaning. Many of the items sold here support small village artisans, making your holiday shopping more meaningful.
4. Placencia Christmas Market – Southern Belize
Location: Placencia Sidewalk
Typical Dates:Mid-to-late December
Few experiences compare to shopping at a Christmas market right by the sea. The Placencia Christmas Market brings together holiday cheer, beach vibes, and Garifuna culture into one festive event along the village’s famous sidewalk.
Vendor Types
- Seashell jewelry
- Handmade soaps and oils
- Caribbean art
- Beachwear and accessories
- Coconut-based beauty products
Must-Buy Items
- Shell necklaces and earrings
- Driftwood décor
- Hand-poured candles
- Coconut lotions and scrubs
Must-Try Foods
- Hudut
- Fried fish and plantains
- Coconut tarts
- Sweet bread and holiday punch
Why Visit – Placencia’s market is perfect for couples, beach lovers, and anyone spending Christmas in southern Belize. Live drumming, dancing, and ocean breezes give this market a festive but relaxed holiday feel.
5. Orange Walk Christmas Expo & Holiday Fair
Location: Central Park, Orange Walk Town
Typical Dates:Early December
The Orange Walk Christmas Expo reflects strong Mestizo traditions and family-oriented celebrations. It’s one of the most community-focused Belize December events, with school performances, dance troupes, and local food at the center of the experience.
Vendor Types
- Traditional clothing
- Leather goods
- Home décor
- Holiday piñatas
- Handmade accessories
Must-Buy Items
- Leather wallets
- Hand-stitched bags
- Christmas piñatas
- Festive table runners
Must-Try Foods
- Relleno negro
- Pork tacos
- Sweet empanadas
- Tamales and atole
Why Visit – This market is great for cultural immersion and budget-friendly holiday shopping. It’s also one of the best places to see how local families truly celebrate Christmas.
What to Buy at a Belize Christmas Market
If you’re not sure what to shop for, here are some of the most popular items travelers bring home from Belize Christmas markets:
- Handmade jewelry
- Maya pottery and woven textiles
- Coconut-based beauty products
- Wooden carvings and décor
- Leather wallets and bags
- Local spices, sauces, and seasonings
- Holiday ornaments with Belizean designs
These items make meaningful gifts and souvenirs that support small businesses and local artisans.
Traditional Foods You’ll Find at Belize Holiday Fairs
One of the biggest highlights of any Belize holiday fair is the food. December brings out some of the country’s most loved seasonal dishes:
- Rum cake
- Relleno (stuffed turkey)
- Boil-up
- Tamales
- Pan de coco
- Sorrel drink
- Sweet empanadas
Even if you’re full, the aromas alone are worth the visit.
Travel Tips for Visiting Belize Christmas Markets
- Go in the evening: Most markets come alive after sunset.
- Carry cash: Many vendors don’t accept cards.
- Arrive early on weekends: The busiest nights fill up quickly.
- Dress comfortably: Light clothing and walking shoes are best.
- Plan your town itinerary: Combine market visits with nearby attractions and dining spots.
Even if you’re full, the aromas alone are worth the visit.
Why December Is One of the Best Times to Visit Belize
December marks the start of the dry season in Belize, with pleasant temperatures and lower humidity. Along with beautiful weather, travelers enjoy holiday festivals, Christmas markets, cultural shows, and special seasonal menus across the country. It’s the perfect time to combine beach relaxation, jungle exploration, and festive shopping in one trip.
Experience the Spirit of Christmas in Belize
Each Belize Christmas market and holiday fair offers its own unique blend of culture, food, music, and craftsmanship. Whether you’re strolling through the lights of Belize City’s Christmas Village, shopping by the sea in Placencia, or discovering Maya crafts in San Ignacio, these festive markets capture the true heart of the season.
If you’re planning a December getaway, make sure to include at least one of these holiday fairs in your itinerary. For more Belize December events, travel tips, and destination guides, keep BelizeOnTop.com as your go-to travel companion.