Best Time to Visit Belize: When Should I Come?
The best time to visit Belize is from mid-November to April. This peak tourist season boasts plenty of sunshine making it an ideal time for exploring rainforests, scuba diving and lounging on the white sandy beaches.
There is no clear answer to the question when is the best time to visit Belize? because there is always something exciting to do and see in the country. The drier, warm months are more popular with tourists, but the off-season rainier months can be a great opportunity to partake in fishing, snorkeling, or diving. With plenty of colorful and lively festivals occurring throughout the year, visitors to Belize are sure to find plenty of excitement no matter when they arrive.
The Two Seasons of Belize
The weather in Belize is divided into two seasons, the dry season and the rainy season. Both seasons are approximately equal in terms of temperature, although the rainy season is slightly cooler. Because more tourists come to Belize during the drier months, this is known locally as the “high season”, with correspondingly higher rates for accommodation and entertainment venues. The “low season” is when fewer visitors come to Belize, and lodging costs are roughly a third to half as much as during the high season.
Generally speaking, the best time for visitors to experience Belize is between late November and early April, which falls during the country’s dry season. Thousands of tourists come to Belize during this time of the year, drawn to the delightfully warm temperatures, sunny skies, and many local festivals and celebrations.
Less popular for tourists is the period between late April and the month of May, as humidity levels rise to truly tropical levels, and daytime highs top out in the low 100s Fahrenheit. The period from June to early November is the rainy season, with regular precipitation and tropical storms and strong winds. Less popular with tourists, but still a good time to visit, is the period between September and October, when rains tamper off somewhat.
High Season in Belize – November to April
The height of the dry season, the skies remain clear and sunny, and temperatures average about 80 Fahrenheit. Starting in late December, strong winds come bearing down from the north, known locally as “northers”, which will continue off and on through February. Starting in March, the weather becomes more calm, and temperatures become much more pleasant. March and April are prime months for scuba diving and snorkeling, as the waters off the coast become more tranquil and calm. Local hotels usually offer off-season rates during March and April.
Low Season in Belize – June to November
The green season in Belize, which can sometimes see hurricanes and other strong tropical storms. The height of the rainy season are the months of August, September, and October, which feature near-daily rain showers. Daytime temperatures range from the mid 70s to mid 80s Fahrenheit. Fewer tourists come to Belize during this period, but intrepid visitors can take advantage of off-season rates.
Weather in Belize: Dry Season vs Green Season
Belize is typically hot and humid day and night year-round. Temperatures vary by only about 4°C between the coolest part of the year (December to March) and the hottest (May to September). The daily temperature range is around 10°C from the hottest part of the day to the coolest part of the night. In the uplands (Mountain Pine Ridge and the Maya Mountains) you can expect temperatures to fall by about 3°C for every 1000ft rise in altitude, making things noticeably more comfortable.
Dry vs Green Season in Belize
Belize has distinct wet and green seasons. The green season runs from mid-May to November in the south and from mid-June to November in the north. November to February is a transitional period, with the year’s coolest temperatures and a limited amount of rain. The true dry season is February to April. There’s quite a large difference in rainfall between the north of the country (around 1500mm or 60in a year) and the south (about 4000mm or 160in). In the north and center of the country there’s a dip in rainfall in August, between peaks in July and September.
Belize Climate Guide
Desti- nation | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
Western Belize | 81°F4″ | 82°F2″ | 82°F2″ | 88°F2″ | 88°F3″ | 88°F8″ | 84°F7″ | 86°F5″ | 86°F7″ | 84°F8″ | 82°F6″ | 82°F5″ |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Coastal Main- land | 81°F6″ | 82°F3″ | 86°F2″ | 88°F2″ | 90°F4″ | 88°F11″ | 88°F12″ | 88°F11″ | 88°F13″ | 86°F12″ | 82°F9″ | 82°F7″ |
The Atolls | 81°F4″ | 82°F3″ | 84°F2″ | 86°F1″ | 88°F3″ | 88°F7″ | 86°F7″ | 86°F6″ | 88°F7″ | 86°F10″ | 82°F7″ | 81°F6″ |
The Cayes | 84°F4″ | 84°F2″ | 86°F1″ | 88°F1″ | 90°F4″ | 88°F6″ | 90°F4″ | 90°F4″ | 90°F8″ | 88°F8″ | 86°F6″ | 84°F5″ |
Southern Belize | 52°F1″ | 55°F1″ | 61°F1″ | 64°F2″ | 73°F1″ | 82°F1″ | 91°F0″ | 90°F0″ | 82°F1″ | 70°F2″ | 57°F2″ | 52°F2″ |
Festivals in Belize
The local people of Belize love to celebrate, with regular festivals and holidays spread throughout the year where people can dance, drink, and have a good time. With some of the most lively festivals in all of Central America, Belize is a great place for visitors to see the colorful side of life.
The most popular tourist events in Belize are the numerous Lobster Festivals. After the lobster season opens in mid-June, different localities in Belize each hold their own lobster festival, including in Caye Caulker, Placencia, and San Pedro, each dedicated to fresh seafood, dancing, and music.
Another popular party in Belize is the International Costa Maya Festival. Held in the city of San Pedro in mid-August, visitors from around the world can revel in a this week-long celebration of heritage with beauty pageants, parades, and parties. Also held in August is the Deer Dance Festival, where indigenous locals strut their best steps to the beat of the drum.
The month of September is jam-packed with festivals, as locals celebrate Independence Day, the big party of Carnival, as well as St. George’s Caye Day. Other popular celebrations held throughout the year include the Battle of the Drums, the delicious Toledo Cacao Festival, the world-renowned La Ruta Maya River Challenge, and Garifuna Settlement Day. October is a great time to visit, as the World Indigenous Music Festival features hundreds of musicians celebrating their rich cultural heritage.
Month By Month Guide To Traveling in Belize
Belize in January
When the cold winter winds blow, dumping snow and ice on North America, the best place to be in January is Belize. With clear skies, and lovely balmy temperatures, you can swim in the warm waters of the Caribbean or simply sun yourself on one of the sugar sand beaches. If you’re looking for something more adventurous, you can explore the tropical rain forests, cruise up jungle rivers to spot birds, or go snorkeling off the biggest coral reef in the Western Hemisphere.
Belize is also a great place to ring in the New Year, giving your soul, mind, and body a chance to rejuvenate and start off fresh.
Belize Weather in January: Generally mild temperatures, with intermittent rainfall. The end of the month marks the beginning of the dry season, so January is a very popular month for visitors to come experience Belize. Daytime highs average around 80°F (27°C) with nights around 70°F (21°C).
Belize in February
February is one of the best months to visit Belize. With delightfully warm tropical weather and endless sunny skies, February is a great time to escape the snow and cold up north and come relax on a beach or splash in the warm waters of the Caribbean.
Belize Weather in February: Very little rainfall and cool breezes make for very pleasant weather in February. Daytime highs average around 80°F (27°C) and nights rarely drop below 70°F (21°C), making this winter month still warm enough for T-shirts and sandals.
Belize in March
With fantastic weather, Belize in March is at the top of tourist season, with countless opportunities to fish, dive, snorkel, sail, and explore the lush landscape of tropical rainforests, mountain peaks, and rich fertile plains. March is also when many high-energy festivals and celebrations occur throughout the country, making it the perfect time to visit the tropical paradise of Belize.
Belize Weather in March: Almost no rainfall, so the weather is extremely pleasant for visitors celebrating Easter in Belize. Temperatures during the day are around 83F (28°C), while nights stay breezy but warm at around 74F (23°C). One of the balmiest and most enjoyable times for visitors to experience Belize.
Belize in April
April is the best month to visit Belize, preferred by many visitors because the large crowds of Easter and Spring Break have begun to taper off. With plenty of warm sunny weather and fewer crowds, April is a fantastic time to visit Belize. Whether you’re interested in exploring Maya ruins, swimming with whale sharks, tubing down a river through a series of caves or simply enjoying a lovely holiday in a tropical paradise, there’s plenty on offer in Belize in the month of April.
Belize Weather in April: Warmer temperatures mark the onset of the “Iguana Rains”, short, refreshing rain showers that keep temperatures pleasantly warm and excess humidity at bay. Days can get up to around 85°F (29°C) while nights stay comfortably warm at around 76°F (24°C).
Belize in May
May is a great month to visit Belize because numerous resorts, hotels, and tour companies offer huge discounts on accommodations, tours, and all inclusive vacation packages making it affordable for travelers to enjoy an exquisite and amazing Belize vacation.
The weather is also fantastic in May and there are endless activities that you can partake in such as scuba diving with whale sharks, exploring the Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave, bird watching in the rainforest, and taking a dip at Belize’s top waterfalls like Big Rock and Rio on Pools in the Mountain Pine Ridge.
Another big reason to visit Belize in May is that there are fewer tourists in the country and thus you can enjoy all of the top attractions thoroughly and without rushing.
Belize Weather in May: One of the warmer months, daytime temps are generally around 87°F (31°C), while it’s easy to enjoy the nightlife with temps falling to only around 79°F (26°C). Some light showers occur in the morning, while some nights see the occasional thunderstorm.
Belize in June
Slightly cooler and with better breezes than the months of April and May, June in Belize is a wonderful time to visit. Probably the best attraction for seafood lovers is all of the festivals throughout Belize that celebrate the beginning of the lobster season. The islands of Ambergris Caye and Caulker Caye, and the peninsula of Placencia, each hold their own special festival dedicated to all things lobster.
June is also a great time to visit Belize as airfare from the United States is more affordable than ever. Major airlines like Delta, American Airlines and Southwest all run specials, and Belize is only 3-5 hours’ flying time from several major American cities.
Belize Weather in June: Warming temperatures are moderated by plenty of fresh Caribbean breezes, with an average daytime high of 84°F (29°C), with warm nights as well at around 80°F (27°C). Expect to see a short rain shower on most afternoons that will quickly transition to sunny skies once again. One of the most enjoyable times for visitors to experience Belize.
Belize in July
July is one of the best months to enjoy a vacation in Belize. With fewer crowds and most resorts and hotels offering deep discounts, July is a wonderful time to visit. Air carriers in the United States offer affordable rates on direct flights from several major American cities, and there is plenty to do and see in Belize.
Belize Weather in July: The heart of the summer, July daytime highs average around 86°F (30°C), while nights stay pleasantly warm with an average of 79°F (26°C). Expect to see plentiful rain showers in the early morning, and fairly frequent thunderstorms during the night. Fishing, diving and snorkeling opportunities are fantastic during this month.
Belize in August
Unlike the scorching temperatures found in most of the United States, August in Belize is filled with balmy weather and lots of sunshine. With fewer crowds and lots of advantageous discounts on tours and lodging, August is a great month to come and visit this gem of a country located on the shores of the Caribbean Sea immediately south of Mexico.
Belize Weather in August: As the rainy season takes a break, August is known locally as the “Little Dry” month. The weather in Belize in August stays nice and warm, with daytime highs of about 86°F (30°C), while nights stay balmy at 78°F (26°C), making it perfect beach and swimming weather.
Belize in September
September is an outstanding time to visit Belize as airlines offer competitive rates, resorts and lodges offer discounts, and tours and popular spots are less crowded. With great weather and plenty of sunshine, September is when Belizeans come home from abroad to participate in a month-long celebration of their national heritage and history.
Belize Weather in September: Expect to see a brief resumption of regular rains during this month, especially early in the morning and during the night, but most days stay sunny and clear. Daytime temps average about 81°F (27°C), while nights stay pleasant with a low of 77°F (25°C).
Belize in October
The leaves might be turning and the weather getting chilly in North America during the month of October, but there’s plenty of sunshine, warmth, and adventures to be had in Belize during October. The weather does actually cool down in Belize during October, but that’s a good thing! The weather will be perfect for sailing, snorkeling, swimming, or enjoying one of the many festivals and fun events that take place in October.
Belize Weather in October: The rainy season begins in earnest, with more regular bouts of heavier rainfall. Occasionally, stronger rain storms known as “Northers” will bring plenty of precipitation, especially in the region of the Maya Mountains, which can see heavy rain for days at a stretch.
Daytime highs are slightly cooler, with a high of about 79°F (26°C), and lows reaching around 75°F (24°C).
Belize in November
November may mean cold winds and wintry weather in North America, but balmy temperatures and sunny skies in Belize make it the perfect time to visit. With the big crowds arriving later for Christmas and New Years, November is the ideal time to enjoy fabulous weather with plenty of affordable deals on tours, transportation, and lodging at some of the top resorts and lodges in the country.
Belize Weather in November: The coolest month in this tropical nation, daytime highs average about 76°F (24°C), with nights dipping down to around 73°F (23°C). Although these temperatures seem warm to visitors from America and Canada, this marks the beginning of winter for locals.
Belize in December
December might herald cold winds and snow across North America, but it’s a month of long, sunny days and warm temperatures perfect for snorkeling, swimming, sailing, and hiking in Belize.
With all of the top airlines, including Delta, United, American, and Southwest, offering non-stop service from the United States, it’s now easier and more affordable than ever to enjoy an exotic getaway vacation in Belize. Whether you’re an adventure traveler, want to celebrate your honeymoon, or simply looking for a fun family vacation, Belize has something for everyone.
Belize Weather in December: This month usually starts with plenty of rain, but the end of the year heralds the start of the dry season. The last month of the year sees daytime highs at a pleasant average of 80°F (27°C), while nights average around 75°F (24°C), making Belize the perfect place to enjoy a balmy Christmas on the beach.
Top Places To Visit in Belize
Ambergris Caye
Ambergris Caye is the largest and most popular island in the northern waters of Belize and measures 25 miles long and 5 miles across. It is located just 35 miles northeast of Belize City and can be reached on a 10-minute plane ride or an hour and half boat ride. Read more: https://www.belizehub.com/about-us/belize/ambergris-caye-belize/
Belmopan, Capital of Belize
Belmopan, the current capital of Belize, holds a number of distinctions. Belmopan is the smallest national capital in the region with just 17,000 residents and was built as a brand-new city in 1970 after the long-time colonial capital of Belize City suffered catastrophic damage from Hurricane Hattie in 1961. Read more: https://www.belizehub.com/belmopan
Belize City
Some of the most popular attractions in Belize City include the historic Baron Bliss Lighthouse, the country’s Supreme Court, the beautiful St. John’s Cathedral, and the House of Culture. Another popular local attraction is the Museum of Belize. First built in 1857, the structure served as a prison until 2002, when it was transformed into a museum dedicated to showcasing the country’s heritage. Read more: https://www.belizehub.com/about-us/belize/belize-city/
Belize Islands and Atolls
The waters off the coast of Belize are dotted with more than 450 beautiful small islands, known locally as cayes (“keys”), as well as tiny atolls that rise up from the floor of the Caribbean Sea. Some of these tiny islands and atolls are uninhabited, but visitors are increasingly being drawn to the rich abundance of marine life and gorgeous coral reefs that can be seen in the waters offshore. Read more: https://www.belizehub.com/about-us/belize/belize-islands-and-atolls/
Caye Caulker
If “off the beaten track” is the only type of vacation you enjoy, you owe it to yourself to spend time on Caye Caulker, the Belize getaway island that’s geologically nothing more than a sand bar over limestone that forms ancient caves atop the ocean floor. This island is so laid back and mellow, nervous business types find it downright irritating, as Caye Caulker is something of a magnet for backpacking, bohemian souls who think nothing of bringing two changes of clothing for a long visit. Read more: https://www.belizehub.com/about-us/belize/caye-caulker/
Corozal
The northernmost district (state) in the country, Corozal has long been overlooked by most tourists, although that is beginning to change.
Near the district’s capital of Corozal Town can be found the Maya ruins of Santa Rita and Cerros. The ruins now known as Santa Rita once controlled vital trade routes between present-day Mexico and Guatemala. After the Caste War ended in 1901 in neighboring Mexico, thousands of ethnic Mestizos emigrated to Corozal to become farmers. Read more: https://www.belizehub.com/about-us/belize/corozal-district/
Hopkins Belize
How did a sleepy little fishing village on the coast of the Stann Creek District in Belize gain a reputation for being the nation’s #1 cultural destination? A little luck. A rich heritage. And proximity to some of the most remarkable sights, sounds and experiences Belize has to offer—so many, you’ll understand how Hopkins gained so notable a reputation despite its small size. Read more: https://www.belizehub.com/about-us/belize/hopkins-belize/
Orange Walk
Orange Walk Town is the fourth largest town in Belize and is located 53 miles north of Belize City. The town is known for its diversity and visitors come to explore Mayan sites like Cuello and Lamanai (pictured above) and a variety of other natural parks. Read more: https://www.belizehub.com/about-us/belize/orange-walk-belize/
Placencia
Veteran travelers have been known to joke about vacations they’ve taken that sent them to a different area of one or more countries daily. “If it’s Tuesday, it must be Orange Walk!” we overheard a woman say as she tried to match the day with her itinerary. Of course, seeing lots of places when going abroad is fun, but nothing surpasses an immersion, which is why we recommend targeting one area of Belize: Placencia. Read more: https://www.belizehub.com/about-us/belize/placencia-belize/
San Ignacio
No visitor departs Belize without leaving a piece of their heart behind, and this is particularly true of travelers who have found their own version of paradise in San Ignacio, a glorious, friendly destination that’s so close to Guatemala, you can get a second stamp on your passport if you insist on leaving Belize. But, why bother? There’s so much to see, do, taste and learn in the district known simply as “Cayo,” your time and energy are much better spent in this intriguing area of Belize. Need to plan your trip so you don’t waste a minute of time? Start with our suggestions and you’ll be ready to fly. Read more: https://www.belizehub.com/about-us/belize/cayo-district-belize/
Stann Creek District
Located on the coast of southeastern Belize, the Stann Creek District is home to the popular tourist destinations of Placencia Village, the peninsula of Placencia, and the Garifuna village of Hopkins.
With approximately 34,000 residents, the Stann Creek District is home to a wide variety of indigenous and local peoples, including the Mestizos, the Creole community, the Garifuna, and descendants of the Maya. Without any large metropolitan areas, visitors are drawn to the Stann Creek District because it is a unique opportunity to explore the authentic slow-paced Central American lifestyle of Belize. Read more: https://www.belizehub.com/about-us/belize/stann-creek-district/
Toledo District
Every inch of Belize could be described as lush, but if you are interested in seeing a primeval world that’s as natural as it gets, a trip to the Toledo District will prove to be an eye-opener. There are approximately 1,700 square miles of rain forests, rivers, offshore islands, jungle and even mountains, making it the least-developed of Belize’s districts—but perhaps the most fascinating. Read more: https://www.belizehub.com/about-us/belize/toledo-district/
Belize Calendar of Events
Belize in January | |||
January 1st | New Year’s Day | Celebrate New Year’s Day in Belize | |
January 1st | Krem New Year’s Cycling Classic | The KREM New Year’s Day Cycling Classic is a single day road cycling race held in Belize since 1992 on New Year’s Day, January 1, and is thus the first race on Belize’s cycling calendar. The race was restricted to elite and junior men until 2001, when females became eligible to ride. | |
January 1st | Horse Racing in Burrell Boom | Burrell Boom has the largest race track in Belize and these races are exciting | |
Third Monday in January | Dr. Martin Luther King Junior Day | Martin Luther Day is an American federal holiday marking the birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr. It is observed on the third Monday of January each year, which is around King’s birthday, January 15. | |
Belize inFebruary | |||
February 6 – 9 | San Pedro Carnival | Every year during the week before Lent, the town of San Pedro on the island of Ambergris Caye explodes with ecstatic demonstrations of singing, dancing, parades, flour fighting, and even a painting contest. | |
February – 7 | Valentine Cycling Classic | The Cycling Federation of Belize announced the 20th edition of the annual Valentine’s Classic as the DigiCell Valentine Mini Tour. The perennial road race for the first time will be but a part of a two day mini tour featuring a prologue and circuit race on day 1 and the road race on day two. | |
February – 18 | Fiesta de Carnaval | Nationwide celebrations and dance competition one week before lent. | |
Belize inMarch | |||
March 4 – 8 | La Ruta Maya Canoe River Challenge | A four day, 179 mile long canoe race along the Macal and Belize Rivers is held each year in March. The race is called the La Ruta Maya Belize River Challenge, and brings competitors from many local villages celebrating their hard work as they make their way from San Ignacio Town to Belize City. | |
March – 10 | Baron Bliss Day – public holiday. Celebrated with fishing, races, and the harbour regatta | Baron Bill Day is a national holiday to honor Baron Bliss, a man known for his kind-heart and philanthropy. Most events in his honor are athletic, ranging from canoe races to regattas. | |
Agricultural Show in Northern Belize | Annual Agricultural & Trade Show Held in Belmopan, Orange Walk Town and nearby Chan Pine Ridge every two years. Livestock, handicrafts, traditional costumes and dances. | ||
March – 12 | San Cas Belmopan Cycling Classic | This annual cycling event begins in Belize City and goes to the capital of Belmopan before returning to Belize City for the finish. | |
Trade & Livestock Show | Held in Belmopan at the National Agricultural Showgrounds every other year, the last weekend in March. Features rodeo. | ||
March – 25 | Good Friday – public holiday | Good Friday is one of the most peaceful days in the country. Minimal traveling is done on this day as most folks either stay home to be with their families. Radio and television stations broadcast religious programs, including live coverage of the Pope’s Good Friday Message and the procession around Rome’s Colosseum to mark Jesus Christ’s crucifixion and death on Good Friday. | |
March – 26 | Holy Saturday – public holiday | Holy Saturday it is off to the races! Belizeans are nuts about cycling. The annual Holy Saturday Cross Country Cycle Race, a grueling 140 mile pedal race, runs from Belize City to San Ignacio-Santa Elena in the west, and back to Belize City. It causes the country to shut down for another day – well, at least most of the day. The race takes up the entire Western Highway paralyzing traffic from 5 in the morning until 2pm, so travelers are well advised to make their plans accordingly. The first cross country cycle race was held in 1928 and was won by Elston Kerr. The race has its roots in colonial era Belize when poor people had to cycle from village to village to watch cricket and football matches due to non-existent public transport and terrible roads. Following the race, most municipalities have fairs and dances. | |
March – 26 | Holy Saturday Cycling Classic from Belize City to San Ignacio and back | The Holy Saturday Cross Country Cycling Classic is a one-day amateur cycling race held in Belize every year during the Easter holidays. It is Belize’s biggest cycling event and has begun to be recognized internationally. | |
March – 26 | Holy Saturday Regatta | Regatta in Caye Caulker for both sail and powerboats | |
March 26 – 27 | San Ignacio Easter Fair | Two-day fair with music, games, sports and fun for the whole family | |
March – 27 | Easter Sunday | Easter Sunday is observed with mass celebrating the Resurrection of Christ and is a time when families get together, visit each other, share meals or have picnics. It is a time when Christians proclaim their faith and strengthen their ties to God. In the afternoons, many municipalities hold football games and fairs. | |
March – 28 | Easter Monday – public holiday | Easter Monday is when the Easter celebrations begin to wind down. There are still a few fairs being held throughout the country including one at Burrel Boom in the Belize District which also hosts horse races. Almost all municipal towns host fairs and afternoon dances to close off the long weekend. Tuesday it is back to work and start to think of the next long weekend for another opportunity to enjoy this wonderful country we all love. | |
March 28 – 30 | San Jose Succotz Festival | San Jose Succotz Village is a destination for the escapists. You will find yourselves reveling in the essence of this little remote region of Belize while enjoying the annual attractions that the 3-day San Jose Succotz Festival offers. | |
Belize inApril | |||
April – 1 | Green & Loggerhead Turtle Season Ends | Catching and sale of these turtles is illegal until 1 November | |
April 1 – 15 | Travelling Exhibition | ||
April – 7 | Cycling Classic | ||
April – 9 | Easter Monday / Burrell Boom Cycle & Horse Races Easter Fair | Easter Monday is when the Easter celebrations begin to wind down. There are still a few fairs being held throughout the country including one at Burrel Boom in the Belize District which also hosts horse races. Almost all municipal towns host fairs and afternoon dances to close off the long weekend. Tuesday it is back to work and start to think of the next long weekend for another opportunity to enjoy this wonderful country we all love. | |
April – 15 | Shrimp Season Ends | Catching and sale of shrimp is illegal until 15 August | |
April 23 – 27 | Book Week | Book Week ended on April 27th in the Cayo District, after a three- day series of events for which the book industry had an opportunity to celebrate under the theme, “Books: Food For the mind”. Under the stewardship of the Belize Book Industry Association (BBIA), it was an occasion to enjoy the gift of books and also to meet their authors directly. | |
April 24 – 25 | San Pedro Lagoon-Reef Eco-Challenge | Lagoon-Reef Eco Challenge 10, Kayak Race inAmbergris Caye | |
Cross Country Classic Bicycle race | continues on Western Highway , Circles around park in San Ignacio and returns to a dramatic finale in Belize City. International participation | ||
San Jose Succotz Fiesta | Local fair celebrating the day of their patron saint. Entertainment for kids, rides, food, marimba music. | ||
April – 30 | Treaty with Guatemala | On 30th April 1859, the Governments of Guatemala and the United Kingdom signed the Anglo-Guatemalan Treaty defining the border between Guatemala and British Honduras (now Belize) | |
Belize inMay | |||
1st May and ends on 3rd of May | National Agricultural & Trade Show | The National Agriculture & Trade Show (NATS) is Belize’s leading agricultural show which is organized by the National Agriculture & Trade Show Committee in collaboration with the Ministry Natural Resources and Agriculture. | |
May – 1 | Labour Day | Address by the Minister of Labour or a representative, followed by parades and rallies held throughout the country. Kite contest, cycle race, harbor regatta, horse race. | |
May 6 – 8 | Cashew Festival | May brings Cashew Day, a food and wine event, to Belize. Guests dine on finely prepared Caribbean dishes and sample local wine made from the fruit of the cashew tree, while listening to live music. | |
May – 10 | Week-long festivals | in which school children depict various cultural groups in the district through drama and music. Arts and crafts exhibition includes basketry, paintings, clay sculpture, seashells and calabash vessels. | |
May – 11 | Dia de las Madres | Mother’s Day, celebration with a religious ceremony in the evening followed by a dinner at Central Park with cultural presentations, until midnight | |
May – 13 | Female Cross Country Cycling Classic | ||
May 20 – 22 | Toledo Cacao Festival | Cacao is native to the Americas, and the Toledo District of southern Belize is recognized for its superior cacao. These cacao beans are a significant export crop and, within country, are transformed into distinctive and high quality chocolate. | |
May – 24 / May – 25 | Sovereign’s Day | Sovereign’s Day Celebrated nationwide as the Queen’s birthday. National Sports Council holds horse races in Belize City at the National Stadium and in Orange Walk Town at the People’s Stadium. Cycle races are held between Cayo and Belmopan. | |
Cayo Expo: San Ignacio | Local crafts and products. Coconut Festival Caye Caulker. Food, beverages, crafts. Parade with prize for floats. | ||
Belize inJune | |||
June 1 – 30 | Whale Shark Watching | From 3 days before the full moon to 3 days after the last quarter from March to June, whale sharks feed in the waters of southern Belize | |
June – 1 | Hicatee Season Opens | Catching and sale of hicatee turtles is legal | |
June – 1 | Officially Named Belize | On 1 June, 1973, the name of the Commonwealth territory, British Honduras, was changed to Belize | |
June 1 – 2 / June 20 – 21 | Mayan Equinox | The events at Caracol were held to celebrate the beginning of spring, or the spring equinox, a time when the Earth’s axis is tilted neither toward or away from the sun because the center of the sun is in the same plane as the equator. As a result, night and day are of equal length. | |
June 12 – 19 | San Pedro Lobster Fest | Marks the start of lobster season | |
June – 15 | Lobster Season Opens | Celebrations are held on many cayes and in coastal towns | |
June 15 – 21 / June 14 – 21 | San Pedro Lobster Fest | Locally caught spiny lobster is the focus of the San Pedro Lobster Fest each June. Booths of the lobster in various states are set up for guests to sample, while calypso and reggae beats play in the background. | |
June – 16 | Lamanai Canoe Challenge | ||
June – 21 | Summer Solstice | Activities at many larger Mayan ruins | |
June 23 – 27 | BETEX (Belize Tourism Expo) Belize’s first trade show | The event, held every 2 years, brought together approximately 200 local and international tourism professionals and media representatives. BETEX is an opportunity to showcase Belize’s Tourism, created an environment for trade visitors (travel agents) to connect directly with Belizean Tourism suppliers to find out what Belize has to offer. | |
June 22 – 24 | Placencia Lobster Fest | The 11th Annual Placencia Lobsterfest | |
June 25 – 27 | Placencia Lobster Fest | Placencia Fishermen’s Day Saltwater Fishing Tournament | |
June 26 – 29 | Archaeology Symposium | The 11th Annual Placencia Lobsterfest | |
June – 29 | Día de San Pedro (San Pedro Day) | a three day celebration in honour of San Pedro’s namesake and Patron Saint. The celebration will take place on the 29th Feast Day of St. Peter | |
June – 30 | Pibil Fest | Progresso Village, Corozal District, Belize A traditional way to cook the pork wrapped in banana leaf, it is buried in a pit with fire at the bottom to roast it. The Maya word “pibil” means “buried”. A host of activities is held in the village of Progresso, where the highlight is the Pibil. | |
Belize inJuly | |||
June 30 – July 2 | The 8th annual Belize Archaeology Symposium (BAS) | This Year: Status and power in ancient maya society | |
July 1 – 2 – 3 | Caye Caulker Lobster Festival | Caye Caulker is small enough and their Lobsterfest (THE ORIGINAL BELIZE FESTIVAL) is big enough so that it seems to take over the whole island. Sun and sand, gorgeous water and swimming kids, loud music, dancing and tons of food and drink – there is something for everyone and it’s a full family affair. | |
July 13 – 17 | Belize Film Festival | The Belize International Film Festival is an international film festival held annually in Belize City, Belize since 2003. | |
July – 15 | Benque Viejo Fiesta | Viejo del Carmen Fiesta Local fair. Celebrates the day of their patron saint with cultural shows, marimba bands, food and games. Nine days of prayer. | |
July 16 – 24 | Belize International Film Festival Bliss Center for performing Arts | Overlooking the harbour from the Southern Foreshore near the Supreme Court, this building houses the Institute of Creative Arts and hosts cultural and arts events throughout the year. Renovated and expanded in 2004, the Bliss Centre’s 600-seat theatre is headquarters for the Belize International Film Festival in February. A drama series, children’s festivals, dance, art displays, and other cultural and musical performances take place at various times. It also houses a small art gallery with a George Gabb sculpture, Sleeping Giant, which appears as the watermark on Belize five-dollar bills. | |
July 16 – 17 | Belize National Fire Service Olympiad | Located at Yarborough Field, Belize City | |
Belize inAugust | |||
August – 1 | Deer Dance Festival | A uniquely Belizean experience, the Deer Dance Festival is held in the Mayan village of San Antonio in Belize’s southern Toledo District. The event features a ritualized dance emulating the hunting of a deer, followed by locals attempting to scale a greased pole. Hilarity ensues! | |
August – 1 | International Costa Maya Festival | The Costa Maya Festival is a week-long celebration that brings musical groups, artists and beauty queens from the neighboring countries of Guatemala, Mexico, Honduras, El Salvador and Costa Rica. | |
August 5 – 8 | San Pedro’s International Costa Maya Festival | Costa Maya Festival is the only festival of its kind in Central America. It is the biggest festival in Belize, as well as the highlight of Ambergris Caye’s entertainment year | |
August 12 – 15 | Tres Pescados Slam Tournament | Tres Pescado Slam Tournament in San Pedro for tarpon, permit and bonefish. The tournament will also involve the Ambergris Caye community with casting competitions and boat poling competitions with prizes and trophies as well as fly fishing and fly tying demonstrations all held each day in Central park | |
August 17 – 19 | San Joaquin Fiesta | The San Joaquin Fiesta is receiving more attention as the years go by; in fact, it has become the biggest event the village hosts. The Fiesta is in celebration of the village’s patron saint: San Joaquin,” said Marceli Tzul, Chairperson of the San Joaquin Village Council. “Every year, we first pay tribute to our Saint and then the party begins. The general public is invited to join the celebration | |
Belize inSeptember | |||
Queen of the Bay Pageant | |||
September – 10 | Fire Engine Parade in Belize City | The traditional Fire Engine Parade roared through the old capital’s principal streets, featuring participation from the National Fire Service, Police, BERT Ambulance Service as well as a float from Digicell. | |
September – 10 | Public & Bank Holiday in Celebration of the Battle of St. George’s Caye Day | St. George’s Caye Day Celebrates and commemorates a battle in 1798 when the Spanish were defeated by slaves, Baymen and British soldiers. Around the country similar official ceremonies and parades take place. Carnivals, sporting activities, fire engine parade, and pop concerts held several days prior to this event. | |
September – 12 | Carnival King and Queen | The King and Queen of Carnival will lead the parade in Belize City scheduled, as September/Independence Day Celebrations are well underway in the country. | |
September 12 – 13 | Belize Expo – Expo Belize | ||
September – 13 | BTB/San Cas Cycling Classic | ||
September – 17 | Carnival Road March | The Carnival Road March took place and saw thousands of Belizeans making their way to Belize City for the highly anticipated event. Held annually since 1975 as part of the September Celebrations, carnival has been growing each year and has become one of the biggest shows of culture and patriotism in the country. The event starts with pre-dawn J’ouvert and ends with a jump up party at BTL Park immediately after the parade. | |
September – 21 | Belize Independence Day Ceremonies and Parade | Independence Day September 21st Numerous cultural, religious and sporting activities held a couple of weeks before St. George’s Caye Day. Flag-raising ceremonies, parades, street jump-ups, music, dance and foods. Crowning of Miss San Pedro. | |
Belize inOctober | |||
October – 9 / Octboer – 12 | Columbus Day / Pan American Day | Columbus Day/Pan American Day is celebrated throughout Belize each October with various events. Some cities hold beauty pageants, while others hold music festivals or celebrate with a parade through town. | |
October 12 – 14 | World Indigenous Music Festival | ||
Belikin Spectacular | Bullfish tournament with spectacular prizes. Sponsored by the Belize Game Fish Association. | ||
Hike & Bike for the Rain Forest | A two-day cross-country run and mountain bike race. Local and International athletes will compete throughout the Cayo area for the benefit of the rain forest. | ||
October – 31 | Halloween | While most of Central America celebrates the Latin-base day of the Dead or All Souls Day, Belize follows the North Americans Halloween tradition with ostentatious customes , trick-or-treating and extreme partying. Placcencia on particular is great for this; being small means the action take place in one spot, and the whole town gets invloved | |
Belize inNovember | |||
November – 19 | Garifuna Settlement Day | Each November, the local Garifuna people begin their celebration of Garifuna Settlement Day with a reenactment of their peoples first arrival to Belize in 1832. The day continues on in celebration with great food, music, and dance. | |
November 22 – 24 | Dance X Belize | ||
Stann Creek Agricultural Fair | Exhibits of livestock and locally grown fruits and vegetables. | ||
November – 27 | San Pedro Township Celebration | San Pedro was declared a town by the government of Belize in 1984 and November 27th is observed as Township Day. The local government Town Board organizes annual events including boat races, fishing tournaments, parades, musical entertainment and a small festival to celebrate the occasion. | |
Belize inDecember | |||
December – 5 | Holiday Boat Lighting Parade | Annual Boat Parade in San Pedro | |
December – 12 | Mass Wedding | ||
December 20 – 21 | Mayan Solstice Festival | This winter solstice, immerse yourself in the Mayan world | |
December – 24 | Christmas Eve | Midnight mass all over town. | |
December – 25 | Christmas Day | ||
December – 26 | Kwanzaa | Holiday celebrated by many Belizean-Americans. | |
December – 27 | Boxing Day, Horse Race & Cycle Race | While Christmas Day is predominantly for the family in Belize, Boxing Day is a chance to continue the celebration with friends, neighbors, and strangers. Dances, concerts, horse races, and general festivities are put on around the country. December 26. |
Email us at info (@)belizehub.com for more information about Belize or if you need us to help you plan your Belize vacation.