How to Celebrate Garifuna Settlement Day in Belize

by Giulissa Hernandez
“Afeduha waméi wagücha, afareinha waméi wanichigu!” – Celebrating our roots; sharing our culture.

This year’s theme shines bright and clear: If there’s one celebration in Belize that captures the soul of a people, it’s Garifuna Settlement Day. Every year on November 19th, the streets of Belize come alive with the vibrant music and dance of the Garifuna people. As families flock together to share traditional meals, the entire country commemorates the day the Garifuna arrived in Belize in 1832. While this cultural extravaganza is celebrated nationwide, the coastal communities of Dangriga and Hopkins are where you’ll find the heart of the action. Here’s how to make the most of Garifuna Settlement Day and fully immerse yourself in this unforgettable cultural experience.

Where to Go

Photo by Marlena Gomez Photography

Experience Garifuna Settlement Day in all its glory by heading down south to Dangriga Town. Often referred to as the culture capital of Belize, Dangriga is the epicenter of the November 19th celebrations. The streets fill with pulsating drum beats, rhythmic dances, and exuberant crowds.

The festivities start as early as the evening of November 18th with music and cultural performances, leading up to the reenactment of the Yurumein.

Yurumein is the dramatic reenactment of the Garifuna’s arrival on Belizean shores, complete with canoes approaching the horizon at dawn on the 19th. Participants dressed in traditional attire paddle their dugout canoes to shore, singing and drumming to celebrate their ancestors’ landing.

Another great place to experience Garifuna Settlement Day is Hopkins, a smaller but equally spirited Garifuna community. Known for its tranquil vibe and authentic cultural experiences, Hopkins offers a more intimate way to enjoy the celebration. Here, you’ll find yourself immersed in a close-knit community that’s eager to share its history and customs with visitors. Both places are a must-visit.

What to Eat

Photo by Sirenain Bay Resort

The Garifuna culture is not only rich in musical and dance traditions but also boasts a distinctive cuisine. Many of these are a must-try during the celebrations. As you wander through Dangriga or Hopkins, you’ll find food stalls and local eateries offering delicious Garifuna dishes. The most well-known is Hudut. This delectable dish is a savory coconut milk soup served with mashed plantains and fresh fish. The flavors are rich, creamy, and infused with just the right amount of spice. It’s a dish that’s as comforting as it is flavorful, providing a perfect introduction to Garifuna cuisine. 

If you’re looking for something a little lighter, you can try cassava bread. Made from grated cassava root, Cassava Bread is a traditional staple that can be found in many variations during the festivities. Often paired with a fish-based soup or fried fish and vegetables, it’s a versatile dish that’s deeply rooted in Garifuna culinary traditions.

Lastly, we have Darasa. Made from grated green bananas, seasoned, and then wrapped in banana leaves, it is steamed to perfection and somewhat similar to tamales. You’ll often find it served with fish or chicken stew. This, of course, is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Garifuna cuisine.

Where to Stay

Photo by The Belize Collection

Enhance your Garifuna Settlement Day experience by staying at a place with both comfort and convenient access to the festivities. Just south of Hopkins village, The Lodge at Jaguar Reef is an ideal choice for a blend of luxury and convenience. The location of this beachfront resort allows guests to easily access the Garifuna Settlement Day festivities. Plus, the knowledgeable staff can help arrange cultural tours, including drumming lessons and traditional cooking classes, for those who want to dive even deeper into Garifuna culture. The resort even has an on-site restaurant serving elevated traditional Belizean cuisine for those who love a good food vacation.

Photo by Muy’Ono Resorts

For travelers looking for a touch of adventure, consider Hopkins Bay by Muy’Ono Resorts. Situated right on the beach north of the village, it offers stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. The resort features spacious villas and family-friendly accommodations, making it an excellent choice for groups looking to experience Garifuna Settlement Day together. After a day of dancing, drumming, and feasting, retreat to your comfortable villa and relax to the sound of the waves lapping against the shore.

Photo by The Belize Collection / The Lodge at Jaguar Reef

Garifuna Settlement Day in Belize is a vibrant cultural event that celebrates resilience, history, and the enduring spirit of the Garifuna people. Whether you’re dancing to the rhythmic beats of the drums in Dangriga or savoring the flavors of Garifuna cuisine in Hopkins, you’ll find yourself swept up in a celebration that’s truly one-of-a-kind.

Featured Photo by Hopkins Bay Resort 

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