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Belize’s very own Songwriter Festival has grown into a vibrant annual celebration, spotlighting the craft of songwriting within a picturesque Caribbean backdrop. This event found its origins in a magical evening at The Lodge at Jaguar Reef in Hopkins, Belize, in 2022, when country singer-songwriter Lucas Hoge envisioned a gathering of music creators and fans alike.
Why the Tapir? Understanding Belize’s National Symbol
At first glance, the Tapir may not seem like a prominent national symbol. With its barrel-shaped body, short limbs, and oddly endearing snout, it appears to be a blend of a pig and a small elephant. But the Baird’s Tapir, Tapirus bairdii, is far more than its looks suggest. As the largest land mammal in Central America, it plays a crucial ecological role and symbolizes the country’s commitment to conservation and biodiversity.
This herbivorous mammal is native to the rainforests and lowland jungles of Belize, where it thrives near rivers, wetlands, and forest clearings. The Tapir’s presence in the country’s wild landscapes is a reminder of Belize’s rich natural heritage and the delicate balance that sustains it.
The first-ever Belize Songwriter Festival took place in 2023
It sets the tone for what would become one of the country’s most anticipated annual musical events. Hosted in the tranquil coastal village of Hopkins, the Festival offered attendees more than just music. The 2023 edition featured an eclectic blend of musical talent, drawing both seasoned songwriters and emerging voices from across the country and abroad. This balance created an environment where storytelling through song could shine in its most authentic form: raw, unfiltered, and emotionally resonant.
Among the performers were:
- Jamie O’Neal: The platinum-selling powerhouse known for her heartfelt ballads.
- Rodney Clawson: A veteran songwriter with hits penned for country legends like Tim McGraw.
- Lucas Hoge: Festival founder and creative force behind the event.
- JD Wood, Rebecca Lynn Howard, Craig Campbell, and Rob Williford: Each brought their signature style and lyrical brilliance to the beachside stage.
Guests enjoyed morning swims, spa treatments, and gourmet dining before heading to evening performances, all within walking distance of the main stage.
2024 Festival Recap: Second Annual Success (May 17–18, 2024)
Back for its sophomore year, the 2024 Belize Songwriter Festival took place on May 17–18. It expanded on the first iteration’s intimacy with more songwriters and deeper immersion into Belizean culture.
What Attendees Experienced:
- Two full evenings of music featuring acoustic sets, storytelling, and artist Q&As.
- Beachside gatherings at The Lodge at Jaguar Reef mix local seafood flavors with fresh country tunes.
- Cultural immersion, with opportunities to explore Hopkins’ artisan shops, nearby wildlife reserves, and coastal charm.
- Festival-goers left inspired not only by the songwriting craft but also by the promise of pursuing their creative journeys.
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2025 Festival Highlights: Third Annual Celebration (May 23–24, 2025)
The third annual Festival, held on May 23–24, 2025, elevated the experience with a polished program and celebrity songwriters.
Day One: Friday, May 23
Time:
- 5:00 PM: Cocktail hour commenced with a sunset toast over the Caribbean.
- 5:30–7:30 PM: Beachside performances by Craig Campbell, Rob Williford, and Rebecca Lynn Howard are celebrated for their chart-topping country anthems.
- 8:00–10:00 PM: A cozy encore session at Mango’s Bar featuring Riley Roth and Nate Kenyon. The complimentary shuttle between venues smoothed guest transitions and fostered connection in an intimate bar setting.
Day Two: Saturday, May 24:
- 5:30–7:30 PM: Back at Jaguar Reef, headliners Jamie O’Neal, Rodney Clawson, and Jason Duke filled the air with soul and storytelling.
- 8:00–10:00 PM: A grand finale at Play Bar featured JD Wood alongside festival founder Lucas Hoge, creating a celebratory close to two powerful evenings.
The festival attendees stayed in luxury at one of four Hopkins properties:
- The Lodge at Jaguar Reef
- Almond Beach Resort
- The Colonial Inn
- Villa Margherita
Options ranged from two-bedroom penthouses to beachfront cottages ideal for groups or couples seeking seaside comfort.
Why the Festival Resonates
Artist-Fan Connection
- Crafted for intimate interaction, the Festival enabled fans to meet their musical heroes.
- One of the most talked-about features of the Festival was its intimate breakout sessions. These sessions provided a behind-the-scenes look into the songwriting process, offering fans a rare window into the creative mind. Breakout sessions (smaller & unofficial sets) fostered casual mingling, collaboration, and spontaneous jam sessions.
Belizean Cultural Immersion
Beyond music, attendees experienced Hopkin’s laid-back beach life:
- Caribbean seafood feasts
- Artisan shopping
- Artisan shopping Snorkeling, fishing, and sunset beach walks
Celebrating Songwriting as a Craft
The Festival emphasized talented songwriters, not just big names, highlighting emerging voices and the stories behind the songs.
Looking Ahead: Fourth Annual Festival (May 15–16, 2026)
Planning is already underway for the 2026 Belize Songwriter Festival, to be held on May 15–16. Attendees can expect:
- Four resort venues, each hosting events at cocktail hour starting at 5 PM.
- Four performances featuring a mix of country’s chart-toppers, veteran writers, and rising stars.
- Festival experiences include live music, fishing, snorkeling, beach parties, and Caribbean sun & fun.
Interested in joining? Stay tuned for details on passes, lodging, and the performer lineup coming soon.
Final Thoughts
The Belize Songwriter Festival has grown from a stroke of inspiration in 2022 to a cherished cultural event in Central America. It offers a rare combination of professional songwriting exposure, Caribbean hospitality, and authentic community connection.
For music lovers and creative seekers, nothing compares to spending two evenings under the stars, surrounded by art, friendship, and the rhythm of Belize.