As the holiday season dawns upon us once again, seeing Belize transform into a festive wonderland is always a sight to behold. While the weather may not chill your bones, the air is filled with the fragrance of tropical blooms and the spirit of Christmas cheer. Yuletide festivities are a must and span from small familial traditions to community get-togethers. Embrace the unique blend of cultural traditions, warm weather festivities, and delicious feasts when you spend Christmas in Belize. Keep reading to learn all about the remarkable activities that occur in Belize during this season. The unmistakable Belizean charm makes spending the holidays in this Central American nation a joyous occasion like no other.
Deck the Towns with Boughs of Holly
Photo by Marlena Gomez Photography
It’s a tradition shared across the country, uniting all the major towns and their inhabitants. Each year, town and city councils decorate the local parks with extravagant Christmas trees, lights, and trinkets. Then, Christmas tree lighting takes place while everyone gathers and watches in harmony. In San Pedro, there’s usually a special boat lighting parade in early December with many joining in. Many boats are decorated with beloved Christmas characters and at the end, the best decorated is chosen as the winner. This event is usually the first to spark the air with Christmas cheer.
A Feast for All
A Belizean feast of flavors will take your taste buds on a delightful journey. From savory tamales to delectable rum-infused fruitcakes, expect Christmas tables to be adorned with an array of culinary delights. Indulge in traditional dishes like black fruit cake, baked ham, and relleno. Depending on the area of the country, cuisine will differ.
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- Relleno Negro also known as “Black Dinner”
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- Photo by Carolee Chanona
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- Photo by the Radisson Fort George Hotel in Belize
For instance, the northern districts often celebrate with relleno, mechado, and tamales. Whereas elsewhere you might find more rice and beans and baked ham. One thing’s for sure, sweet delicacies are craved everywhere. From black fruitcake to rumpopo. Each bite is a celebration of Belizean culinary richness.
Get on Your Feet
Jankunu dancers dance on the beaches of the South. Image courtesy Island Expeditions
Now for some revels that get you up and moving! You might have already heard of the well-known Christmas Bram that takes place in the Belize district. It’s always a joyous celebration that focuses on traveling around the neighborhood singing and dancing to brukdown music. It’s a tradition held by the Creole culture and always involves food and music as well.
In Stann Creek, you’ll come across the Garifuna culture’s Jankunu dance held every Christmas Day. The dancers dress in white and wear masks to imitate European slave traders. It usually involves the entire community, everyone dancing along and singing together.
Lastly, in Cayo, you’ll discover the Mestizo’s tradition of Las Posadas. In Benque Viejo del Carmen, the nine-day tradition begins on December 16th and ends on Christmas Day. The town comes together to recreate when Mary and Joseph were looking for lodging when traveling from Nazareth to Bethlehem. The group travels from house to house and when they enter the home, a novena (prayers) takes place.
A Tropical Christmas. Photo by Grand Caribe
The Belize Christmas experience is one that blends tradition, warmth, and the unique charm of the Caribbean. Whether you’re exploring festive markets, indulging in Belizean delicacies, or dancing to the rhythm of holiday tunes, spending Christmas in Belize is an enchanting journey into the heart of joy and celebration.
Featured Photo by Casa Al Mar
