What to do when in Belize

January

Starting the New Year on an energetic note, elite national and international cyclists race over 90 miles from Corozal to Belize City for the KREM New Year’s Cycling Classic. Junior riders can also enter the annual road race, pedalling from Orange Walk District to the finish line in the capital. Join the crowds to see them off then meet them in Belize City a few hours later to witness the competitors tear through the tape. The atmosphere for spectators is electric.

The lead up to Easter is a brilliant time to be in Central America and the Caribbean region and Belize shakes its stuff with the best of them El Carnaval de San Pedro takes place in the pre-Lenten period in San Pedro on Ambergris Caye. Dating back to the 19^th century, this tradition has its roots in the carnival of Cádiz in Spain (known for its music and fun spirit), so you can expect plenty of playfulness: think singing, dancing, street parades, a painting contest (where people daub paint each other) and flour fights.

March features the thrilling Belikin La Ruta Maya Belize River Challenge, a multi-day canoe race that runs for 273km along the scenic Belize River. This renowned event attracts both international and local paddlers who navigate through lush jungle landscapes and picturesque villages. Alongside the intense competition, the race fosters a festive atmosphere with local cultural displays, music, and community gatherings, making it a highlight of the Belizean sporting calendar.

In the run up to Easter, head to the far western Cayo District and Benque Viejo Del Carmen to experience the town’s devout Semana Santa (Holy Week) celebrations. Prayers and processions commemorate the death of Jesus Christ with the main event taking place on Good Friday. A re-enactment of the Passion and Death of Jesus sees costumed performers proceed through the small town, whose streets are adorned with carpets of colourful sawdust. This moving procession draws people from far and wide.

There are many reasons to head to the southern Toledo District – jungle-clad Maya sites, traditional villages, the Maya Mountains and chocolate (said to have been invented by the ancient Maya). Every year the region’s prized cacao bean is celebrated with the Chocolate Festival, which is held in Punta Gorda, a pretty port at the hub of Belize’s main cacao-growing region. Meet the cacao farmers and local chocolatiers and enjoy eclectic performances and demonstrations as well as tasting all kinds of chocolate concoctions.

June is a vibrant month in Belize, brimming with exciting festivals and events. In Hopkins Village, the Mango Street Fest highlights Belize’s passion for the tasty fruit with a variety of mango-based treats, games, and drumming. Elsewhere, the Made in Belize Expo in Belmopan offers a dynamic experience featuring local artisans and small businesses, showcasing crafts, visual art, culinary creations, and wearable art. And then there is the Belize Band Fest which brings together talented local bands for a lively celebration of music and culture.

Mark the start of the lobster season at the Placencia, Caye Calker, and San Pedro Lobster Festivals, where the delicious delicacy is celebrated next to the lapping waters in this picturesque fishing town. As well as sinking your teeth into this sweet-fleshed crustacean (typically cooked on the grill), you can try other Belizean dishes, listen to music and watch dances.

Two staples of the Belizean kitchen are celebrated at the Corozal Coconut and Corn Fest this month. As well as watching demonstrations of agricultural traditions and cultural performances there’ll be oodles of opportunities to try corn and coconut produce and tuck into typical dishes including garnaches (fried corn tortillas covered with beans, cheese and pickled cabbage), tamales made with steamed corn masa dough and coconutty fish stews.

A flag raising ceremony signals the start of the high-energy celebrations for Belize Independence Day on 21 September. The nation gained full independence from Britain in 1981 and commemorates this momentous occasion all around the country. Wherever you venture on the national holiday you’ll find community parades, music, dancing, poetry recitals, good food and drink galore and fireworks bursting into the night skies.

October

Sustainability and seafood are on the menu at the TIDE Conservation Festival, an annual fundraising event held in Punta Gorda Town that promotes a serious message in a fun way. Over three days, this celebration of Belize’s natural resources and cultural heritage shines the light on marine conservation and sustainable fishing practices with workshops and contests by local anglers along with lots of activities for the kids. There is live music and food with the Fish Fest being a fantastic finale.

October is also when the Belize Birding Festival takes place in Western Belize. With more than 600 species of birds calling the country home, there’s every reason to celebrate avian life here. Expect over 200 attendees, speakers, workshops, vendors, art exhibitors and guided tours. A real must for tweeters.

A significant date in the Belizean calendar, Garifuna Settlement Day on 19 November honours the migration of the Garifuna people here in 1802 after they were displaced from Saint Vincent. Vibrant coastal town Dangriga, where the Garifuna first landed, is the place to be. Watch rousing re-enactments of the canoe landings, listen to traditional drumming and feast on Garifuna dishes such as hudut, a stew with mashed plantains, fish and coconut.

December

The sight of illuminated boats reflected along the dark waters off Ambergris Caye during the Boat Lighting Parade is a magical one. Watch the boats, festooned with festive lights and multi-coloured decorations, from various viewing stations set up at beach bars along the route before joining to hear the winner being announced back in San Pedro. This annual tradition takes place in early December and marks the start of the Christmas countdown.