Authentically Belize Events Experience
Something Is Always Happening In Belize
Why Belize Celebrates
Belize is a country of many cultures, traditions, and stories.
From lobster festivals on the coast to Garifuna drumming in the south and Maya celebrations in the west, every event offers a glimpse into the people that make Belize unique.
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Experience Belize Through Events
What moves you? Find your kind of Belize.
Featured Annual Events
The events that define the Belizean calendar.
Placencia Lobster Fest
June · Placencia
The Caribbean's most celebrated crustacean weekend. Three days of seafood, music, beach vibes, and Belizean summer energy.
ExploreGarifuna Settlement Day
November 19 · Nationwide
One of Belize's most powerful celebrations of culture, history, and identity. Drumming starts before sunrise.
ExploreLa Ruta Maya
March · Belize River
A 4-day, 170-mile canoe race through the jungle. Raw endurance, pure Belize.
ExploreChocolate Festival
June · Toledo District
Cacao country. Meet the Maya farmers, taste single-origin chocolate, and get your hands dirty.
ExploreSeptember Celebrations
September · Belize City & nationwide
A full month of national pride. Battle of St. George's Caye, Independence Day, and everything between.
ExploreCosta Maya Festival
August · San Pedro
International pageant, live concerts, and Caribbean culture on Ambergris Caye. A beach party with soul.
ExploreExplore Belize By Season
Every season has its own energy. Pick yours.
Local Tips From Belizeans
The things no guidebook will tell you.
"The best lobster sells out early. Arrive before noon and eat before the music starts — after that, everyone forgets to eat."
"Garifuna Settlement Day starts before sunrise. Don't miss the Yurumein re-enactment at the shore — that moment is why we celebrate."
"Come to the farm, not just the tasting tent. The real festival is in the trees. Most tourists never see where the chocolate actually begins."
Not Sure Which Event Is Right For You?
Tell us when you're visiting and what you love — we'll match you to the most authentic Belizean experience possible.
Ask A BelizeanFAQ Section
Belize hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including:
- September Celebrations
- Belize Carnival
- Lobster Festivals
- Garifuna Settlement Day
- Costa Maya Festival
- Ruta Maya Belize River Challenge
- La Ruta Maya
- Chocolate Festival of Belize
- Deer Dance Festival
- Baron Bliss Day celebrations
Each event highlights a different aspect of Belizean culture, history, food, music, or community traditions.
The best time depends on the experience you’re looking for.
Popular periods include:
- February to May for food, culture, and sporting events
- June and July for Lobster Festivals
- September for Independence and Patriotism celebrations
- November for Garifuna Settlement Day and cultural festivities
Most events in Belize are family-friendly and community-oriented. Visitors can expect food vendors, local entertainment, cultural performances, music, sports, and activities suitable for all ages.
Many Belizeans consider Garifuna Settlement Day one of the country’s most important cultural celebrations. Observed every November 19th, it honors the arrival and heritage of the Garifuna people through music, dance, drumming, food, and cultural traditions.
Popular food-focused events include:
- Lobster Festivals
- Chocolate Festival of Belize
- Mango Festival
- Cashew Festival
- Food and cultural fairs throughout the districts
These festivals celebrate local ingredients, Belizean cuisine, and community traditions.
Many public events, parades, cultural celebrations, and community festivals are free. Some concerts, sporting competitions, and specialty events may charge admission or participation fees.
We recommend:
- sunscreen
- reusable water bottle
- cash
- comfortable clothing
- insect repellent
- camera or phone for photos
Belize’s climate is tropical and many events take place outdoors.
Businesses, organizations, community groups, and event organizers can submit events for consideration through Authentically Belize’s event submission process.
Experience Belize Through Its Events 🇧🇿
Belize comes alive through its festivals, food fairs, cultural celebrations, sporting events, and community gatherings. Explore what’s happening across the country and discover the people, traditions, and experiences that make Belize unique.