November Events in Belize You Can Enjoy During Vacation

If you’re planning a trip to Belize in November, you’re in for something special. While much of the Caribbean winds down from hurricane season, Belize comes alive with colorful festivals, music-filled streets, and cultural celebrations that mark the start of the dry season. November is the perfect blend of pleasant weather, lighter crowds, and some of the country’s most meaningful events — especially Garifuna Settlement Day, one of Belize’s most important national holidays.

From local harvest fairs to community concerts and art exhibitions, November offers plenty of ways to connect with Belizean life beyond the beaches. Here’s a guide to the best November events in Belize you can enjoy during your vacation.

1. Garifuna Settlement Day (November 19)

Location: Primarily in Dangriga, Hopkins, and Punta Gorda

Type: Cultural Celebration

Garifuna Settlement Day is one of the biggest events in Belize, celebrating the arrival of the Garifuna people to the country’s southern coast in 1802. The day is a national holiday, filled with drumming, dancing, parades, and traditional food such as hudut (fish stew with coconut milk and plantains).

Festivities usually start days before November 19, with drumming circles and community gatherings that fill the air with rhythm and energy. In Dangriga, the “Culture Capital” of Belize, locals reenact the Garifuna people’s arrival by canoe at sunrise, followed by parades, live performances, and cultural exhibitions.

Travel Tip: Book accommodations early if you plan to stay in Dangriga or Hopkins — hotels fill up quickly around this holiday.

2. Hopkins Garifuna Cultural Festival (Mid-November)

Location: Hopkins Village, Stann Creek District

Type: Cultural and Music Event

Leading up to Garifuna Settlement Day, Hopkins Village hosts a week-long Garifuna Cultural Festival featuring live music, storytelling, and dance workshops. You’ll hear punta and paranda music played live, see artists crafting traditional drums, and taste authentic Garifuna cuisine prepared by locals.

This event gives travelers a deeper understanding of the Garifuna heritage and how it shapes Belize’s diverse cultural identity. If you love lively rhythms and beachside celebrations, Hopkins is the place to be.

3. Belize International Film Festival (November 8)

Location: Belize City and San Ignacio

Type: Arts & Entertainment

The Belize International Film Festival (BIFF) brings together filmmakers, actors, and audiences from around the world to celebrate creativity and storytelling. The event features screenings of short films, documentaries, and full-length features — many produced in or about Belize and the wider Caribbean.

Aside from the red-carpet screenings, visitors can attend panel discussions, after-parties, and networking events. It’s a great opportunity to see how Belize’s artistic community is growing and gaining international recognition.

Why Visit: Perfect for travelers interested in culture, art, and media — or just looking for something different beyond beach days.

4. San Pedro Holiday Light-Up and Early Christmas Markets (Late November)

Location: San Pedro, Ambergris Caye

Type: Family & Community Event

As November ends, San Pedro begins its holiday season celebrations with light-up ceremonies, street markets, and charity fairs. Central Park becomes a hub of activity as vendors sell crafts, ornaments, and sweet treats like rum cake and Belizean fudge.

Families and travelers gather to watch the lighting of the town’s Christmas tree, enjoy carols, and sip sorrel punch. It’s a heartwarming way to transition from November’s cultural festivities into the December holiday cheer.

5. National Agriculture and Trade Fair – Mini Harvest Events (Various Dates)

Location: Across smaller towns in the Cayo and Orange Walk districts

Type: Local Fair / Harvest Event

While the main National Agriculture and Trade Fair is held in April, smaller harvest fairs pop up across the country in November. Farmers and local vendors display produce, plants, and handmade crafts. You can sample Belizean honey, chocolate, jams, and locally brewed wines.

Local Tip: These mini fairs are more relaxed and authentic compared to large festivals — ideal for travelers who enjoy meeting locals and exploring rural Belize.

6. Dangriga Live Music Week (Early to Mid-November)

Location: Dangriga, Stann Creek District

Type: Music & Cultural Festival

November is all about rhythm in southern Belize. Dangriga Live Music Week features nightly performances by local and regional artists playing punta rock, reggae, soca, and traditional Garifuna beats. Pop-up bars, food stalls, and art vendors line the streets, creating a carnival-like atmosphere.

Don’t Miss: The beachside jam sessions, where travelers and locals dance barefoot under the stars.

7. Local Art Exhibitions and Craft Fairs

Location: Belize City, San Ignacio, and Placencia

Type: Arts & Crafts

November also sees pop-up art shows and craft fairs organized by community centers and galleries. These events highlight Belizean painters, sculptors, and jewelry makers who draw inspiration from the country’s natural beauty and multicultural roots.

If you’re looking for meani ngful souvenirs, these fairs are perfect for finding handmade gifts and supporting Belize’s creative community.

8. River to Reef Clean-Up Events and Eco Drives

Location: Placencia, Caye Caulker, and Ambergris Caye

Type: Eco-Conservation

In many coastal towns, November is the start of eco-volunteer events focused on conservation and sustainability. Travelers can join reef clean-ups, tree-planting drives, and wildlife rescue fundraisers organized by local NGOs.

It’s a wonderful way to give back to the places you’re visiting — and to meet locals who care deeply about protecting Belize’s incredible natural resources.

9. Thanksgiving Celebrations (November 27)

Location: Countrywide (popular in expat communities)

Type: Social & Cultural Gathering

Although Thanksgiving isn’t a traditional Belizean holiday, many resorts, restaurants, and expat communities host Thanksgiving dinners in late November. Expect Caribbean twists on classic dishes — like turkey with rice and beans, cassava bread, and Belizean cranberry sauce.

Best Spots: San Pedro and Placencia have some of the best beachside Thanksgiving celebrations.

10. San Ignacio Town Fair (First Weekend of November)

Location: San Ignacio, Cayo District

Type: Community Event

This popular fair includes horse racing, parades, live music, and food stalls, attracting visitors from all over the western region. It’s a fun, family-friendly event that offers a glimpse into rural Belizean traditions.

The fairgrounds buzz with laughter, dancing, and the smell of grilled meats — a perfect kickoff to your November trip.

Tips for Enjoying November Events in Belize

Book in advance: Especially around Garifuna Settlement Day.
Carry cash: Many local fairs and events are cash-only.
Dress comfortably: Light clothes for the day, a light jacket for evenings.
Respect traditions: During cultural ceremonies, be mindful of photography rules and customs.
Mix events with exploration: Combine festival visits with nearby attractions like waterfalls, caves, or the reef.

Final Thoughts

November is one of the most exciting and authentic months to visit Belize. From the soul-stirring drums of Garifuna Settlement Day to the festive lights of San Pedro’s holiday celebrations, the country offers something for every traveler. Whether you’re interested in culture, food, music, or community life, Belize in November is full of unforgettable experiences waiting to be discovered.

So, plan your trip, mark your calendar, and get ready to enjoy Belize’s November events that bring warmth, rhythm, and celebration to every traveler’s journey.