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Belize is one of the Caribbean’s most enchanting travel destinations — and there’s no better time to visit than January. With ideal weather, exciting events, and rich cultural celebrations, Belize comes alive in this vibrant month. From thrilling sporting traditions to official national holidays, January in Belize offers a perfect blend of sunny beaches, jungle adventures, and authentic local culture.
Ideal Weather & Outdoor Conditions
January marks the heart of Belize’s dry season, meaning you’ll find plenty of sunshine, minimal rainfall, and mild tropical temperatures — perfect for beaches, jungles, reefs, and more. During this month:
- Daytime temperatures typically range from the mid-70s to low-80s °F (around 25–28 °C).
- Very little rain compared to the rest of the year, making outdoor adventures much easier.
- Water visibility is excellent for snorkeling and diving along the Belize Barrier Reef, the second-largest coral reef system in the world.
Whether you want to hike the rainforest, explore ancient Maya ruins, or kayak through jungle rivers, January’s dry, comfortable climate provides the perfect backdrop.
Major Events & Festivals in January
Belize kicks off the year with lively local traditions, cultural festivals, sporting events, and national holidays. Here’s a list of the top 7 celebrations and events in January 2026, including dates and locations where available:
1. New Year’s Day Celebrations
Date & Location – January 1, 2026 — Nationwide
Belizeans celebrate the start of the year with fireworks, beach parties, music, and family gatherings across towns and cayes. January 1st is a national public holiday, giving visitors a festive atmosphere to wake up to in places like Belize City, San Pedro, and Placencia.
2. KREM New Year’s Day Cycling Classic
Date & Location – January 1, 2026 — Date & Location – January 1, 2026 — Route: Corozal District to Belize City
One of Belize’s signature sporting events, this classic road cycling race begins the competitive calendar with cyclists riding from the north (near Corozal) down to Belize City.
3. Horse Racing in Burrell Boom
Date & Location – January 1, 2026 — Burrell Boom (near Belize City)
A day of high-spirited horse racing and community fun at one of the country’s most popular racetracks. Locals and visitors alike gather for betting, cheering, and a festive rural atmosphere.
4. George Price Day
Date & Location – January 15, 2026 — Nationwide (Ceremonies in Belize City & Beyond)
A public holiday honoring George Cadle Price, Belize’s first Prime Minister and national hero. Expect parades, civic ceremonies, cultural showcases, and reflections on Belizean history and independence.
5. Friendship Music Festival Cruise
Date & Location – January 18-22, Docking at Harvest Caye (southern Belize)
An international electronic music festival on a cruise ship featuring top DJs, parties, and excursions in Belize—perfect for music lovers seeking a unique tropical vibe.
6. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Observance
Date & Location – Third Monday of January (Jan 19, 2026) — Nationwide
While not a Belizean national holiday, this U.S. holiday is often acknowledged in tourism hotspots with events, community celebrations, and “MLK Day Weekend” activities, especially for American visitors in Belize.
7. Barrier Reef & Water Excursions on New Year’s Weekend
Date & Location – January 1–3, 2026 — Caye Caulker & Ambergris Caye
Though not traditional cultural festivals, organized tours like 7-stop snorkeling trips and reef expeditions are extremely popular during New Year’s holiday weekend, offering social and adventure events on and under the water.
High Season Means Best Travel Conditions
Traveling in January means you’ll be in Belize during peak tourist season, a time characterized by:
- Reliable dry weather
- Great visibility for snorkeling & diving
- Bustling beach towns and island vibes
- More daily excursions and tours available — from cave tubing to Mayan ruin explorations
The vibrant energy of this season makes every day feel like a celebration.
Gastronomy, Culture & Local Flavors
In addition to events, January is a great month to:
- Taste Belizean seafood fresh off the boat
- Try traditional Creole, Garifuna, Maya, and Mestizo dishes
- Attend local markets and food fairs in destinations like Belize City and San Ignacio
This culinary scene pairs with festival fun for a truly immersive travel experience.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re seeking adventure, culture, festivities, or just tropical relaxation, Belize in January 2026 delivers it all. The blend of sunny weather, lively celebrations, rich local culture, and outdoor activities makes this one of the smartest months to plan your visit.
Ready to start planning your January escape to Belize? Explore our blog for a detailed itinerary or the best places to stay for your trip!