Belize in November: Culture, Celebration, and Coastal Warmth

October 6, 2025
by Larry Waight +

November in Belize is a time when the air feels lighter, the sea shines brighter, and the spirit of celebration fills every corner of the country. It is one of the most rewarding months to visit, not only for its warm tropical weather but also for its rich cultural and festive atmosphere. Travelers arriving in November experience a country alive with tradition, community, and gratitude.

The first thing that stands out about November in Belize is how comfortably it sits between the green and high seasons. The rains taper off, leaving behind lush landscapes and clear skies. The beaches in Placencia, Ambergris Caye, and Hopkins are at their best, the rivers run full and vibrant, and the jungle trails are alive with wildlife. With fewer crowds than December and January, it is an ideal month for travelers who want a mix of peace and celebration.

The Meaning of Garifuna Settlement Day

One of the most important national holidays in November is Garifuna Settlement Day, celebrated on November 19th. This event honors the arrival of the Garifuna people to the shores of Belize in 1802 after their exile from Saint Vincent. It is more than a holiday; it is a celebration of resilience, culture, and identity.

In towns such as Dangriga, Hopkins, and Seine Bight, visitors can witness vibrant reenactments of the Garifuna landing, complete with traditional drums, singing, and dance. Streets fill with colorful parades, food stalls serving cassava bread, hudut (a coconut and plantain fish stew), and an energy that pulses long into the night. The drumming, the rhythm, and the community spirit leave a lasting impression on anyone fortunate enough to experience it.

For travelers, Garifuna Settlement Day offers a glimpse into one of Belize’s most beautiful cultural traditions. It is a living celebration of heritage that ties the past to the present. Whether you join the festivities in Hopkins by the beach or in Dangriga where the event originated, it is a powerful reminder of how deeply culture and joy are intertwined in Belizean life.

Thanksgiving in the Tropics

November is also the month when many resorts and restaurants across Belize host Thanksgiving dinners that blend traditional North American dishes with local flavors. Imagine dining on roast turkey, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie while the Caribbean breeze blows through the palms, or trying a Belizean twist with spiced turkey, plantains, and rum cake.

For travelers escaping the cold, Thanksgiving in Belize is about slowing down and sharing gratitude in a warm, tropical setting. Families, couples, and friends gather on verandas, beaches, and open-air restaurants to celebrate togetherness. Many resorts offer special packages for Thanksgiving week, making it one of the best times to enjoy both great food and the relaxed, welcoming energy of the country.

If you are looking for a balance between tradition and adventure, November offers both. You can spend the morning diving at the Belize Barrier Reef or exploring a Maya ruin, and the evening enjoying a beachfront Thanksgiving feast under the stars. It is a reminder that gratitude feels even sweeter when surrounded by nature and warmth.

Advertisment

Booking.com

Why November Is the Perfect Time to Visit Belize

Beyond the festivals and celebrations, November simply feels right for travel. The weather is pleasant, the sea is calm, and the travel deals are still excellent before the peak season begins. Whether you are drawn by the energy of Garifuna Settlement Day, the comfort of a Thanksgiving celebration, or the beauty of nature in full bloom, November captures the essence of what makes Belize so special.

It is a month that invites you to pause, connect, and celebrate — not just the culture of Belize, but the moments that make travel meaningful. Between the sound of drums echoing through coastal towns and the laughter shared over holiday meals, November in Belize is a reminder that joy is found in the simple things: good food, good people, and good stories waiting to be told.

Plan your November getaway with Belize Hub and experience the best of both worlds — a cultural celebration during Garifuna Settlement Day and a Thanksgiving you will never forget, all wrapped in the warmth and charm of Belize.