Carnival in the Caribbean consistently has three elements—dressing in masquerade, music, and dancing—that remain central to Carnival celebrations, whether it be at an elaborate French ball or steel drums in the streets, with costumes, masks, feathers, headdresses, dancing, music, and drums all part of the scene, along with raucous behavior. From Trinidad and Tobago, Carnival spread to other regional nations, including Belize. So for those looking to celebrate carnival in Belize—uniquely in September to coincide with Independence celebrations—and missed Belize City’s very own road march on September 3, here are three more destinations to chip down the streets on September 21!
Placencia Carnival
Photo by Belize My Travels
Photo Credit: Belize My Travels
Photo by Kevin Quischan
Placencia Carnival. Photo by Kevin Quischan Photography
Starting at 1 pm sharp, grab your golf cart and costume to participate in the radiant Placencia Carnival! Held on Independence Day, September 21, the jubilant expression of freedom is fitting to celebrate this year’s theme: “Valiant and bold, proud and strong! Belize rebounds at 41!” Above, enjoy 2019’s Placencia Carnival on the peninsula by local photographer Kevin Quischan.
Ambergris Caye Carnival
Images via SanPedroScoop.com
Did you know Ambergris Caye actually has two carnival seasons? El Gran Carnaval is celebrated prior to Lent like many of our Latin counterparts. In September, the island celebrates again as a Carnival Road March on Independence Day as a part of national celebrations.
The September parade, which is Creole-themed like other Caribbean counterparts, is preceded by J’ouvert. So if you missed both the Belize City Carnival and J’ouvert, join in on Ambergris Caye instead!
Orange Walk Carnival
In recent years, Orange Walk has garnered its own attention for being extra well-organized on the streets of the northern town. Not to mention, especially for its colorful display of extravagant costumes! Celebrated on Independence Day itself, revelers and on-lookers alike can enjoy the fun in ‘Suga City’ on the afternoon of Wednesday, September 21, 2022.
Revelers head towards Placencia Pointe in costume inside golf carts. Header image via Kevin Quischan Photography.
