Lobster Fest, Mango Fest, and More: These 2023 Belize Festivals Shouldn’t Be Missed

by Khaila Gentle

An underrated fact about Belize: the spring and summer months are when the country comes alive with concerts and festivals galore. From the renowned lobster fests to musical soirees, Belize definitely knows how to have fun. If you do too, there are a slew of upcoming events that shouldn’t be missed (especially if you’re a foodie). Here are some of the best festivals taking place in Belize in 2023.

Belize Chocolate Festival: May 19th & 20th

If you’re a chocolate lover, head south to Belize’s Toledo District in May for the annual Chocolate Festival. Enjoy an elegant chocolate gala at Copal Tree Lodge before spending a day indulging in cacao and culture.

Hopkin’s Mango Street Fest: June 10th and 11th

Photo by Hopkins Uncut

For two days this summer, the usually peaceful village of Hopkins will come alive with a festival dedicated to the Caribbean’s favorite fruit. Enjoy sampling all shapes, sizes, and flavors of mango right on the beach. Sway to the hypnotizing beat of drums and punta music. This year, it all takes place on June 10th and 11th.

Belize International Film Festival: June 22nd – July 1st

While not a party, film buffs revel in the chance to attend Belize’s very own International Film Festival. Films showing this year are expected to run the gamut from short documentaries and feature narratives to music videos. For those interested, head to the Cayo district in June. Learn more here.

Belize Lobster Festivals: July 14th – 16th

Perhaps the most anticipated of all the Belize festivals, lobster fest takes place this July. And if you haven’t locked in on your travel plans as yet, you definitely should. All of Belize’s lobster festivals (San Pedro, Caye Caulker, and Placencia) have a high turnout each year, and 2023 will likely be no different.

Belize International Music & Food Fest: July 29th and 30th

Photo by the BTB

Belize’s second-ever International Music and Food Festival takes place in Belize City this summer. The official dates are set for July 29th and 30th, and just like last year, the line up for one of Belize’s biggest musical events is a star-studded one. This year’s headliners are dancehall heavy hitter Spice and the iconic reggae group Morgan Heritage. The BIMFF is definitely one Belize festival that lovers of all things Caribbean music and food shouldn’t miss. Check out some of this year’s artists here.

Carnival Road March: September 9th

Photo courtesy of Belize Tourism Board

Taking part in Carnival in the Caribbean is the experience of a lifetime, with colorful parades and road marches taking place in various countries throughout the year. In Belize City, the official carnival date is set for September 9th. (And, it falls on a long weekend, too).

Featured Photo by Kevin Quischan Photography

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