When people talk about festivals in Belize, names like September Celebrations, Lobsterfest, and Garifuna Settlement Day often dominate the conversation. These iconic events are a fantastic way to dive into Belizean culture, no doubt—but they’re just the beginning. Look beyond the big names, and you’ll find a vibrant undercurrent of local festivals and cultural events that are just as colorful, flavorful, and uniquely Belizean.
These hidden gems may not make the international headlines, but they are beloved by locals and offer a deeper, more intimate look at the country’s heritage. From chocolate to cashews, and from Maya to Mestizo traditions, here are some of the lesser-known festivals in Belize worth celebrating.
1. Crooked Tree Cashew Festival – A Toast to the Humble Nut
Held annually in the small Creole village of Crooked Tree in Belize District, the Cashew Festival celebrates everything cashew—from roasted nuts and wine to jams and jellies. Cashew trees flourish in this region, and the festival pays homage to the hard work and artisanal skills of the local community.
Beyond food, there’s music, dancing, and traditional games, making it a perfect family-friendly event. You might even learn how to make your own batch of cashew wine—an acquired but authentic Belizean taste!
When: Usually late April to early May
Where: Crooked Tree Village, Belize District
2. Toledo Cacao Festival – The Real “Sweet Spot” of Belize
In the southernmost district of Toledo, the Chocolate Festival of Belize (formerly Toledo Cacao Festival) honors one of the country’s most historically significant crops: cacao. This multi-day event blends ancient Maya traditions with modern chocolate-making methods.
You’ll find artisan chocolatiers, farm tours, chocolate tastings, and cultural performances. The festival also features Maya rituals, live music, and traditional food—all set against the lush backdrop of Punta Gorda.
When: Typically in May
Where: Punta Gorda and surrounding Maya villages
3. Benque Fiesta – Faith, Fireworks, and Community Spirit
Tucked away near the Guatemalan border, Benque Viejo del Carmen hosts a deeply religious and spirited event known as the Benque Fiesta. Celebrated in honor of the town’s patron saint, Our Lady of Mount Carmel, the fiesta blends Catholic devotion with Mestizo cultural pride.
Expect traditional marimba music, beauty pageants, street parades, fireworks, and food stalls selling everything from garnaches to tamales. It’s one of the most authentic town festivals in Belize, still relatively untouched by mainstream tourism.
When: Mid-July
Where: Benque Viejo del Carmen, Cayo District
4. La Ruta Maya Belize River Challenge – Paddling Through Heritage
While technically a race, the La Ruta Maya Belize River Challenge is a four-day canoe marathon that doubles as a moving festival along the Belize River. Spanning over 170 miles, this endurance event brings communities together along the riverbanks to cheer on paddlers, enjoy live music, and partake in local food and drink.
It’s not just a sporting event—it’s a tribute to Belize’s waterways, wildlife, and communities. Many of the small riverside villages turn the race into mini-festivals of their own.
When: Early March
Where: From San Ignacio to Belize City along the Belize River
5. Maya Day – A Cultural Revival
Each March, the village of Blue Creek in Toledo hosts Maya Day, a powerful celebration of the traditions, cuisine, and rituals of the Maya people. It’s a grassroots event where traditional dress, farming techniques, food preparation, and music are demonstrated by local community members.
This day is especially important in preserving cultural knowledge for younger generations and offering visitors an authentic glimpse into Maya life beyond the ruins.
When: Mid to late March
Where: Blue Creek Village, Toledo District
6. San Joaquin Fiesta – Community Spirit in the North
Held in the quiet village of San Joaquin in the Corozal District, the San Joaquin Fiesta is a classic Mestizo-style festival full of marimba music, rodeo events, traditional dances, and Catholic processions. The celebration marks the feast day of Saint Joachim, the village’s patron saint.
Locals dress in traditional Yucatec Maya and Mestizo outfits, and the town’s park turns into a hub of food, faith, and festivity.
When: Late August
Where: San Joaquin Village, Corozal District
Why These Hidden Festivals Matter
These lesser-known festivals are more than just charming cultural events—they are essential to understanding Belize’s identity. They showcase the rich ethnic tapestry of the country: Creole, Garifuna, Maya, Mestizo, East Indian, and more. They highlight local pride, community effort, and cultural preservation, often far from the gaze of mainstream tourism.
What makes these festivals special is their authenticity. There’s no fanfare, no heavy commercialization—just community members coming together to celebrate who they are, where they come from, and the land that sustains them.
Final Thoughts: Go Beyond the Guidebook
If you’re planning a trip to Belize or even living here, consider timing your visit to coincide with one of these lesser-known festivals. You’ll not only avoid the tourist crowds but also gain a richer, more personal experience of Belizean culture.
So next time you’re tempted by the allure of Lobsterfest or the roar of Carnival, remember that Belize’s cultural heartbeat also lies in the quiet villages, small towns, and winding rivers where traditions are alive and thriving—just waiting to be discovered.