Transport Yourself to Belize's September Celebrations with these Photos

When COVID-19 raged across the globe mid-March, it didn’t just put a stop to beachside lazying in Belize. All non-essential travel was halted, which also halted the rich cultural experiences gifted by travel. In the Caribbean, carnival is a vibrant event that locals—as well as those of Caribbean heritage across the globe—look forward to celebrating annually. And in Belize, we’re approaching an Independence Day far that’s from traditional this year. Where some families might head out for an annual firework show, sandbar party, or even roadside Carnival march with friends, our “typical” plans are simply not possible in 2020. Nevertheless, we’re celebrating the entire month with these colorful photos! We may not be able to partake in the flamboyant world of carnival this year, but we can keep our civic pride peaking until we can fete together again. After all, a picture is worth a thousand words.

photos © Maya Island Air

Flag Raising Ceremony - September 1

This year, Веlіzе Сіtу Мауоr Веrnаrd Wаgnеr аnd hіѕ соunсіlоrѕ held thе оffісіаl flаg rаіѕіng сеrеmоnу tо ореn thе Ѕерtеmbеr Сеlеbrаtіоnѕ. Kicking off at 5:45 am оn Ѕundау, proud Belizeans gathered (while socially distancing) аt thе Flаg Моnumеnt іnѕіdе thе rоundаbоut nеаr Frееtоwn Rоаd аnd Рrіnсеѕѕ Маrgаrеt Drіvе in Belize City. In 2019, the Belize flag got a facelift— rather, an update. The new flag is an attempt to standardize the Belizean flag, for one definite look, design, and size.

Crowning the Carnival King and Queen: 1st Week of September

First up on the Carnival roster is the King and Queen competition, typically held in the first few days of September. It serves almost like a stress test for the complex outfits as contestants must parade their large, elaborate costumes for the judges. It’s an opportunity for mass groups to demonstrate the hard work and creativity they’ve placed into making their costumes that usually display what our country means. Pictured: the Carnival King and Queen 2017 event, courtesy The Belize National Carnival Commission.

St. George's Caye Day - September 10

Every September 10, Belizeans celebrate the Battle of St. George’s Caye that took place on the island, located approximately 9 miles from the coast of Belize City. This Battle celebrates the victory of the British Baymen, Settlers and slaves defeating the Spaniards in 1798. While the battle was short, lasting just one week, it was a monumental win for the Baymen. This pivotal event in Belizean history gained the Baymen their territory and freedom by conquest. St. George’s Caye Day is more than just a single national holiday – it’s the official kickoff to the September patriotic season. Photo by Belize Mennonites Blogspot

Jouvert - Morning of Carnival Road March

On carnival day, many are up before dawn to participate in J’ouvert, a pre-carnival street party with party-goers covered in paint, mud and/or chocolate who dance and celebrate to the tunes of Calypso and Soca into the wee hours of the morning. J’Ouvert is a celebration held in various forms in the Caribbean that honors the freedom of African enslavement, whilst making a mockery of European enslavers and settlers. Nonetheless, J'ouvert is rooted in freedom; while there are different portrayals and names in each Caribbean country — we all have the same idea to celebrate.

Belize City Road March - September 12

In 2020, Belize City's Carnival Road March is virtual! Typically, the fanfare, exhilaration, and civic pride is unleashed in the afternoon with the Carnival Road March! Countrywide, the nation’s eyes hone in on the energized revelers. Whether viewing in person or participating yourself, the live coverage is always broadcasted on local news channels. Which is why in the age of COVID-19, this year's celebration will go completely virtual! Stay tuned for more details.

Orange Walk Carnival Road March - September 21

As the latest road march, the Orange Walk Carnival has been spotlighting their Mestizo and Maya culture on the streets in Northern Belize! Judging from the increasing popularity of this particular road march, the "Latin" flavor has certainly caught Belizeans' attentions countrywide.

Independence Day - September 21

Belize, which was known as British Honduras until 1973, was the last British colony on the American mainland. Its prolonged path to independence was marked by a unique international campaign (even while it was still a British colony) against the irredentist claims of the neighbouring Guatemala. Belize peacefully achieved independence on September 21, 1981, but retains a historical link with the United Kingdom through membership in the Commonwealth. On September 21, 1981, the Belizean Flag was raised in every village and town of Belize, with The Honorable George Price as our ﬁrst Prime Minister. Four days later, we were admitted to the United Nations as a new, sovereign, and democratic nation in both Central America and the Caribbean. History was made in Belize. Today, we continue to prevail after 39 years.