The Hopkins Mango Festival is coming!

May 25, 2019
by BelizeHubNews +

Mangoes are the most luscious of all tropical fruits, and Belize is proud to grow some of the world’s best mangoes. To pay tribute to this wonderful, versatile and important crop, get your mango on at the Hopkins Mangu Festival.

That’s Not a Misspelling

This year, the festival has been renamed to use the Garifuna name for mango, which is “mangu” and pronounced as ma-goo. The Garifuna culture is an important part of Belize’s vibrant, diverse history.

Who Are the Garifuna?

The Garifuna people are descended from slaves who escaped a sinking ship and began new lives in Honduras, Guatemala, and Belize. They incorporated their traditional African food, music, and language to create a whole new culture that is unique to this part of the world.

The village of Hopkins is a traditional Garifuna fishing village that will give you the chance to immerse yourself in a rich cultural experience.

All About the Festival

It’s all about fruit, family, and fun!

Belizeans love nothing more than a good festival, and the Mangu Fest is no exception. You can spend two days reveling in a relaxed, family-friendly setting where you’ll see mangoes in every conceivable shape, size and color. Sample mango-themed delicacies including jams, jellies, smoothies and main courses, served up by the biggest Belizean culinary stars.

There is something here for everyone in the family. The festival includes a fishing competition, an egg toss, storytelling for kids, a kayak race, drink-making competitions and a greased pole race. Throughout both days, live music from top local musicians plays in the background.

Mangoes are at the peak of perfection in June, and there is no better time to sample this tropical delight.

Many vendors are offering prizes and raffles. You could win free food, a stay at a resort, specialty tours, fine jewelry and more.

What to Know

What: The Hopkins Mangu Festival
When: June 8-9, 2019.
Where: Hopkins, Belize.

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How to Get There

Hopkins is located just a short, 30-minute drive from Dangriga or a 60-minute drive from Placencia, making it really easy to attend the festival for visitors staying in the region.

If you’re interested in attending the 2019 Mangu Fest in Hopkins, Barefoot Rentals and Services has a full line of vehicles for rent, including cars, motorbikes and SUVs. Vehicles can be picked up or delivered to any location in the country.