What’s Happening in Belize in July 2023

by Khaila Gentle

The month of July brings with it longer days and, undoubtedly, plenty of summer festivities – includng in Belize. From the country’s second-ever International Music & Food Festival to Lobster Fests all over, here’s a look at what’s happening in Belize in July. Be sure to check back throughout the month. We’ll be updating with scheduled events as they pop up.

July 1 & 2 – The Grand Caribe Deep Sea Fishing Classic 

The first two days of July will see the deep sea fishing tournament hosted by Grand Caribe come to its thrilling climax and conclusion. Every year in the summer, Ambergris Caye’s beaches – and the Caribbean Sea – become the lively setting for this much-anticipated event. In addition to prizes galore in categories like biggest Wahoo, expect fun beach bashes and poolside barbecues to close off each day.

July 1 – The Spiny Lobster Season Officially Opens 

Lobster at Lily’s Treasure Chest in San Pedro

It’s that time of year again – the opening of the spiny lobster season for 2023/2024 means indulging in the Caribbean’s favorite crustacean. Head to your favorite restaurant, like Lily’s Treasure Chest in San Pedro Town, for some buttery goodness.

July 2 – Soca & Brunch at Da Buzz Restaurant 

If you love a good Caribbean party and you’re in Belize City this coming weekend, head to Da Buzz Restaurant on the Philip Goldson Highway (at mile 1.5) for some Soca and Brunch. Snack on some chicken and waffles alongside mimosas and pina coladas. Then enjoy the hypnotizing rhythms of the region’s favorite genre. Musical performances will include a live steel pan segment by pannist Alexander Evans along with upbeat sets by a slew of local DJs. Get your tickets now, since they’re presold only and are going for a reasonable BZ$20.

Dress Code: Hawaiian 

July 3 to 16 San Pedro Lobster Fest (and Lobster Crawl)

It’s no secret that Belize’s lobster fest is one of its most anticipated festivals of the summer. With each popular tourism destination having its own, start indulging on the island of Ambergris Caye, where the San Pedro Lobster Festival is slated to begin on July 3rd. It all starts off with the week-long lobster crawl.

Similar: Looking for Somewhere to Stay on Ambergris Caye, Belize? Start Here.

Spend time stopping by some of the island’s most popular restaurants, sampling an array of lobster delicacies, and getting your “lobster passport” stamped for each participating establishment that you visit. Then, let loose at the Lobster Fest Block Party on July 15, to be followed by an all-day beach party on the 16th.

Want your own San Pedro Lobster Fest Passport? Visit the Festival’s Official Facebook Page to learn how to secure one.

July 7 – Young Blood: A Young Belizean Artist Exhibition 

For the art lovers in Belize on July 7th, look to Di Factri – Belize City’s beloved and innovative art gallery hub – for what’s expected to be a dynamic exhibition. Young Blood is an art exhibition that will be showcasing the work of youth from across the country. Enjoy an evening of art and socializing with Belize’s art community with the gorgeous Belize River mouth as your backdrop.

July 9 – Traveller’s All You Can Drink Summer Rum Fest

Music, drink tasting, and loads of dancing – what more can one ask for in the summer? On Sunday, July 9th, Traveller’s Liquors Summer Rum Fest is sure to be a movie. Celebrate International Rum Day the right way in Belize at the Traveller’s Bar. Enjoy live entertainment with some of Belize’s hottest musicians like the lovely Yas Thalia. Tickets are on sale now for BZ $30.

July 14 to 16 – Placencia Lobster Fest 

On the tail of San Pedro’s week-long celebration, Placencia’s lobster fest will be a three-day occasion. It’s taking place on July 14th, 15th, and 16th. Enjoy some of the country’s most beautiful beaches alongside plenty of games and family-friendly fun. And, of course, be sure to get your fill of lobster. Grilled lobster, lobster skewers, lobster pizza, and more – it’s a foodie’s dream come true!

Similar: Where to Stay on the Placencia Peninsula in Belize

Fun activities will include the game known as Cast Net – where competitors try to be the first to snag a shilling (25 cents) with a net.  There will even be a fishing tournament on the 15th that promises $16,000 in cash and prizes.

July 14 to 16 – Caye Caulker Lobster Fest

It’s a weekend of fun and sun on Caye Caulker this July. The island’s lobster fest takes place from July 14th to 16th. Expect live music, loads of dancing, and even more lobster. Though a small island, Caye Caulker certainly boasts one of the biggest lobster fest celebrations in the country. In fact, Caye Caulker even has its own Miss Lobster Fest Pageant. Head over to the island on the 14th for the pageant (and after-party). Then, enjoy two days of lobster-themed revelry.

July 22 – The Lodge at Jaguar Reef’s Mini Lobster Fest

Photo courtesy Jaguar Reef Lodge

If you’re a lover of lobster looking for a more intimate festival, head south to Hopkin’s Village. The Lodge at Jaguar Reef – one of The Belize Collection’s stunning resorts – will be hosting its mini lobster fest on July 22. Bartending competitions, an artisan market, mouthwatering lobster dishes, and soothing steel pan music await at this exciting spin on Belize’s Lobster Festival.

July 29 & 30 – The 2nd Belize International Music and Food Festival (BIMFF 2.0) 

Summer in Belize has never looked sweeter, thanks to the upcoming and much-anticipated BIMFF. This second iteration of the country’s largest concert – in terms of artist lineup – will take place in Belize City at the end of July. Headliners Spice and Morgan Heritage offer something for dancehall and reggae lovers alike. Meanwhile, a slew of fifty Belizean artists and DJs – including the world-renowned Garifuna Collective – will be sure to impress. Other international artists include soca heavy-hitter Skinny Fabulous, Erphaan Alves, Rotimi, and more. The music genres that will be on display at this year’s BIMFF are set to be as diverse as the food stalls.

Featured Photo by Kevin Quischan Photography

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