In Belize, every season brings something to celebrate. This small yet culturally rich country is bursting with festivals, holidays, and local events that showcase its diverse heritage and vibrant community spirit. Whether it’s a national holiday, a seafood-filled beach party, or a colorful cultural parade, festivals in Belize are all about connection—through music, food, dance, and shared stories.
If you’re planning a trip to Belize, aligning your visit with one of its many festivals can take your travel experience to the next level. Here’s a look at the must-see events that make Belize come alive all year long.
January – March: New Beginnings and Cultural Celebrations
New Year’s Day (January 1)
Belizeans ring in the new year with family gatherings, fireworks, and music. Beach towns like San Pedro and Placencia light up with parties, while inland towns offer more laid-back celebrations.
Valentine’s Day & Carnaval (February)
Valentine’s Day is widely celebrated with romantic dinners and parties. Around the same time, Carnaval in San Pedro (on Ambergris Caye) kicks off—a week of parades, traditional comparsa dances, and paint-filled fun. This is a unique event deeply rooted in Mestizo tradition and loved by both locals and tourists.
April – June: Spiritual Moments and Summer Kicks Off
Easter Weekend
Easter is a major holiday in Belize. Many families take trips to the beach or riverside, and towns host religious processions, especially in Benque Viejo and San Ignacio. Placencia and Caye Caulker get lively with beach parties and concerts.
Commonwealth Day (May)
Celebrated on the second Monday of May, this public holiday commemorates Belize’s historical ties to the British Commonwealth, though it’s more about relaxing with family than major public events.
Lobster Festival Season Begins (June)
Lobster season officially opens in mid-June, and Belizeans are ready to celebrate! The first Lobster Fest usually kicks off in Caye Caulker, featuring beach BBQs, lobster cook-offs, live music, and dancing.
July – August: Lobster Parties & Local Fairs
San Pedro Lobster Fest & Placencia Lobster Fest
These festivals are foodie heaven, drawing locals and visitors alike. Think lobster pizza, grilled tails, ceviche, and even lobster ice cream (yes, it’s a thing!). Combined with beach parties, local crafts, and live bands, these are must-attend events if you’re visiting in the summer.
Belize International Music & Food Festival (Late July)
A relatively new but rapidly growing event, this festival brings in international and regional artists and showcases Belizean cuisine and culture. It’s a great mix of music, food, and entertainment.
September: The Most Festive Month in Belize
September is known as the Patriotic Month, and it’s the most colorful, high-energy time to visit Belize.
Battle of St. George’s Caye Day (September 10)
This national holiday commemorates the 1798 battle in which the British settlers and enslaved Africans defeated the Spanish. Expect flag-waving parades, school performances, and cultural shows throughout the country.
Belize Independence Day (September 21)
The biggest celebration of the year! Belize gained independence from Britain in 1981, and the whole country celebrates with fireworks, concerts, parades, and street parties. Carnival in Belize City is a highlight—featuring dancers in elaborate costumes, soca music, and contagious joy.
October – November: Cultural Pride and Family Traditions
Pan American Day (October 12)
This holiday celebrates the cultural and historical ties among countries in the Americas. While not as widely celebrated, some communities host school events and small parades.
Garifuna Settlement Day (November 19)
One of the most meaningful cultural holidays in Belize, this day honors the arrival of the Garifuna people in 1802. In towns like Dangriga, Hopkins, and Punta Gorda, the celebration begins with reenactments of the Garifuna’s arrival by canoe, followed by drumming, dancing, and feasting. It’s a spiritual, vibrant experience that offers insight into one of Belize’s most fascinating cultures.
December: Holiday Warmth and Community Spirit
Christmas (December 25) & Boxing Day (December 26)
Christmas in Belize is a joyful family affair. Homes are decorated with lights, children sing carols, and communities gather for food and celebration. Belizean Christmas dinners often include turkey, ham, rice and beans, and traditional black fruit cake. In some Garifuna and Creole communities, you might also experience traditional drumming and the Bram—a house-to-house dance parade.
New Year’s Eve (December 31)
Parties, fireworks, and live music take place all over the country to welcome the new year. Coastal towns host epic beach events, and local restaurants often feature special menus and entertainment.
Final Thoughts
From ancient traditions to modern music festivals, Belize knows how to throw a celebration. Its events and festivals reflect the country’s unique blend of cultures—Creole, Garifuna, Mestizo, Maya, and more—and offer travelers an immersive, joyful experience.
Whether you’re dancing in a Carnival parade, savoring lobster by the beach, or watching the sunrise on Garifuna Settlement Day, you’ll quickly realize that festivals in Belize aren’t just about having fun—they’re about honoring heritage, community, and the Belizean way of life.
So, if you’re looking to experience the heart and soul of Belize, time your visit with one of these incredible celebrations—you won’t just see the culture, you’ll feel it.
Want help planning your Belize trip around one of these events? I can create a custom itinerary based on the festivals you’re most interested in!