We’re halfway into the year, and Belize’s summer festivals are kickstarting with the opening of the Spiny Lobster Season. From July 1st onward, all bets are off – Belizean locals and seasoned visitors alike will be celebrating this long-awaited occasion. The only question is, how and when will you choose to go on your lobster-centric spree? While the biggest and most anticipated lobster festivals will be held in San Pedro, Placencia, and Caye Caulker up until July 16th, a more low-key celebration follows right behind! Here, we’re highlighting two fantastic ways to celebrate Lobster Fest with one of Belize’s most stunning collections of resorts.
Attend a Traditional Lobster Fête in Placencia
The 2019 Placencia Lobster Fest. Photo by Kevin Quischan
The legendary Placencia Lobsterfest begins on July 14th, 2023, which means it’s right around the corner. Plans are already in the making and you shouldn’t fall behind when it comes to attending this jam-packed festival. Should you need more convincing, there will be competitions, live music, and lots of local art to admire. After a hearty meal, enjoy the upbeat ambiance and local camaraderie. From morning to night, your feet will be bare and your belly full. Don’t worry, while there’s no such thing as too much lobster, there will be other dishes to try, too!
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- Photo by Umaya Resort
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- Photo courtesy of Umaya Resort & Adventures
Taking place on the sandy shores of the Placencia Peninsula, this lobster fest will be just a stone’s throw away from The Belize Collection’s Umaya Resort. Stay the night at Umaya and have the entire weekend to enjoy all the festivities. At the end of each day, retreat to cozy accommodations nestled between the Caribbean Sea and Placencia’s tranquil lagoon.
Taking a Peek at Jaguar Reef’s Mini Lobster Fest & Artisan Market
Should you want to keep the party going, head to Hopkins Village for even more fun. With their second-ever Mini Lobster Fest & Artisan Market, The Lodge at Jaguar Reef is once again throwing their hat into the Belize Lobster Festival ring. Dubbed a “mini-fest” for just lasting a day instead of an entire weekend, this event will be no less thrilling.
It all begins at 11:00 am on July 22nd with an eye-catching Battle of the Bartenders competition. Watch competitors hailing from The Rainforest Lodge at Sleeping Giant, The Lodge at Jaguar Reef, and Umaya Resort vie for the title of Master Mixologist.
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- Photos by The Belize Collection
Then, decide which flavorful dishes you want to try from an array of lobster delicacies. There will be four lobster stations in total, including a grill, a pupusa and taco station, a ceviche station, and a pizza stall. When you’ve had your fill, visit the onsite artisan market to purchase crafts and souvenirs from local vendors.
Alongside exciting activities and savory food, enjoy the wonderful melodies of steel pan courtesy of Pannerifix Steel Band. Book your stay early to ensure nothing can delay your trip! That way, you’ll have the entire day to enjoy this wonderful occasion. The Lodge at Jaguar Reef sure knows how to celebrate, and they’re awaiting your visit.
The Choice is Yours
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- The Lodge at Jaguar Reef in Hopkins Village.
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- Umaya Resort & Adventures on the Placencia Peninsula
We’re right behind you if you want to celebrate two weekends in succession. Go big and bold with the traditional Placencia Lobster Fest. Then, enjoy things a little more low-key with Jaguar Reef’s mini-fest. Join in on the celebrations and maybe you’ll discover a new favorite lobster dish. We hope to see you there!
Photos courtesy of The Belize Collection of Resorts.
