Halloween in Belize: Is It Celebrated?

As the end of October approaches, many people around the world start preparing for one of the most popular holidays of the year—Halloween. The thrill of spooky costumes, pumpkin carving, trick-or-treating, and haunted house visits fills the air in many countries, particularly in the United States and Canada. But what about Belize? Is Halloween celebrated in this tropical paradise in Central America?

The answer is a bit of a mix. While Halloween isn’t as deeply embedded in Belizean culture as it is in North America, the holiday has made its mark in recent years, particularly in urban areas, tourist destinations, and schools. But Belize is also a country rich in its own cultural traditions and festivals, which often provide family-friendly and culturally relevant alternatives to Halloween.

In this blog, we’ll dive into how Halloween is observed in Belize, look at its origins, and suggest some cultural and family-friendly alternatives to enjoy during October. Whether you’re in Belize to experience Halloween or looking for unique ways to celebrate the month, this guide will help you navigate the festivities.

Is Halloween Celebrated in Belize?

Halloween is not a public holiday in Belize, and it doesn’t hold the same level of importance as more traditional Belizean holidays such as Independence Day (September 21) or Garifuna Settlement Day (November 19). However, due to globalization and the influence of American media, Halloween has gradually become a recognized event, especially in areas with significant expat populations or high tourist traffic.

In larger towns and cities like Belize City and San Pedro, Halloween activities are gaining in popularity, with more and more events being organized for locals and tourists alike. However, the way Halloween is celebrated in Belize often differs from the traditional North American style.

Halloween in Belize: What Does It Look Like?

If you’re looking for Garifuna crafts in Belize, two locations stand out: Dangriga and Hopkins. Both towns are cultural hubs for the Garifuna community, and they’re great starting points to explore the art and crafts of this vibrant group.

1. School Celebrations

Schools in Belize, particularly in larger cities, often hold Halloween events for students. The traditions may include costume contests, face painting, and fun games. Since Belize has a significant expat population, particularly from the United States and Canada, Halloween celebrations are typically more prominent in private or international schools, where students are encouraged to dress up and participate in themed activities.

For example, in Belize City, international schools might organize trick-or-treating events, classroom parties, and even haunted houses. Public schools, while less likely to fully embrace Halloween, may still mark the occasion with fun educational activities such as pumpkin-carving workshops or stories about the history of Halloween.

2. Resorts and Hotels

Given Belize’s status as a prime tourist destination, many resorts and hotels catering to international visitors often embrace Halloween festivities to engage their guests, particularly families. In San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, and Placencia, you might find resorts hosting Halloween-themed events such as costume parties, trick-or-treating along the beach, or pumpkin carving contests. Some resorts even offer haunted house experiences or Halloween-themed dinners with spooky decorations and activities for the whole family.

For those staying at boutique hotels or resorts in popular tourist areas, these Halloween events are a great way to engage in the holiday spirit. They provide a chance for families to celebrate in a safe and fun environment, especially if you’re not familiar with local customs or don’t want to travel far for a more traditional Halloween experience.

3. Community and Town Celebrations

In places like Corozal, Belize City, and Dangriga, Halloween events are often more subdued but still include elements of costume parties or themed gatherings. Some neighborhoods in Belize City, particularly those with larger expat communities, might see children trick-or-treating, although it’s not as widespread as in places like the U.S.

One of the most popular ways Halloween is celebrated in Belize’s urban centers is through costume parties at bars and restaurants. These parties cater to both locals and tourists, and they often feature live music, food, and, of course, dancing. Locals may incorporate elements of Belizean culture into their costumes or decorations, adding a unique twist to the more traditional Halloween festivities.

4. Halloween Shopping

While Belize is not a country with a strong history of Halloween traditions, many retailers, especially in larger towns like Belize City, have started to stock up on Halloween-related goods. You can find costumes, party supplies, and spooky decorations in stores catering to international visitors. Shopping malls and supermarkets might also sell Halloween-themed candy, though trick-or-treating is not as widely practiced as in other countries.

For those looking to decorate their homes or celebrate in a more personal way, local shops can offer a range of creative Halloween supplies. But be prepared to pay a premium for imported items, as many Halloween products are shipped in from the U.S.

Family-Friendly & Cultural Alternatives to Halloween in Belize

While Halloween may be celebrated by some, Belize has its own rich tapestry of cultural traditions and festivals that offer family-friendly activities during the month of October. For those looking for something more rooted in Belizean culture, here are a few alternatives:

1. Mayan Traditions & Culture

October is an excellent time to explore Belize’s ancient Mayan heritage. The month often coincides with celebrations in honor of the country’s indigenous culture. Many Mayan ruins, including Xunantunich, Caracol, and Altun Ha , offer tours where visitors can learn about Mayan history, architecture, and spirituality. These activities are educational, fun, and immersive, providing families with a chance to experience Belize’s rich history in a meaningful way.

If you’re in Belize during October, consider visiting the Maya Archaeological Sites for a day of exploration and cultural immersion.

2. Garifuna Settlement Day Preparations

Although Garifuna Settlement Day (November 19) is the official day of celebration, many Garifuna communities begin their cultural preparations in October. This is a time when locals start planning the vibrant parades, dances, and music that will take place the following month. Visitors to Dangriga, Hopkins, or Punta Gorda can enjoy cultural performances, live drumming, and dances like the Punta or Wanaragua in anticipation of this important national holiday.

If you’re in Belize at the end of October, you may be able to attend some pre-celebrations or cultural workshops that give a preview of the Garifuna heritage.

3. Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead)

While Halloween may not be a major tradition in Belize, Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), which is observed on November 1 and 2, is more prominent in some Belizean communities. This Mexican holiday has crossed over into Belizean culture, particularly in the Cayo District, where you’ll find families celebrating the lives of their ancestors with offerings, altar decorations, and traditional foods like pan de muerto (bread of the dead).

Dia de los Muertos is a respectful and family-oriented celebration that allows children and adults alike to learn about Belize’s connection to regional traditions, making it a great cultural alternative to Halloween.

Conclusion: A Mix of Global and Local Celebrations

Although Halloween isn’t as widely celebrated in Belize as it is in other parts of the world, the holiday is slowly gaining traction, especially in tourist areas, schools, and resorts. Whether you’re staying in a beachside resort or visiting one of the bustling cities, there’s a good chance you’ll find some Halloween-themed fun to enjoy. However, for those seeking a more culturally immersive experience, Belize offers a wealth of alternatives, from ancient Mayan explorations to Garifuna heritage celebrations.

So, while Halloween may be an exciting part of October in many countries, Belize also offers a rich array of family-friendly and culturally significant events that make the month special in its own unique way.