Among Belize’s many vibrant cultures, the Garifuna people stand out for their celebration of life through rhythm and dance. From the first beat of the drum, their music pulls you in. The melodies tell stories of ancestry, resilience, and community, blending African and Indigenous roots into something timeless and uniquely Belizean. It’s hard not to smile or sway when you hear the steady drums, the laughter, and the call-and-response songs that seem to lift the whole room. The Garifuna people don’t just perform; they invite you to share in their joy, to dance, to taste, and to feel their culture in motion.
Every November, that joy comes to life during Garifuna Settlement Day, a national celebration held on November 19th. The day honors the arrival of the Garifuna people to Belize in 1802 and is one of the most colorful and spirited celebrations in the country. Before dawn, the sounds of conch shells and drumming fill the air during the Yurumein, a dramatic reenactment of the Garifuna people’s arrival by sea. Boats glide toward shore as dancers sing traditional songs, recreating the moment their ancestors first landed on Belizean soil.
As the sun rises, the celebration continues with lively parades, drumming, and traditional dances that keep the energy high well into the night. The smell of coconut milk, cassava, and fresh seafood fills the air as families and visitors gather to enjoy classic Garifuna dishes such as hudut (fish cooked in coconut broth, served with mashed plantain) and sere (a savory seafood soup). The music, food, and friendly faces make it impossible not to feel welcome.
Visitors staying on Ambergris Caye don’t have to travel far to experience this culture firsthand. The Black and White Garifuna Restaurant and Cultural Center in San Pedro keeps the spirit alive year-round. This locally owned gem is dedicated to preserving and promoting Garifuna traditions, offering visitors a taste of culture, community, and cuisine. Stop in for a plate of hudut or cassava bread, stay for a drumming session, and you might even learn a few Punta moves yourself! The center also hosts special events and cultural nights, giving guests a chance to connect with the Garifuna community in a fun and welcoming way.
Whether you join the Yurumein at sunrise, dance to the beat of the drums in the evening or enjoy a hearty meal at the Black and White Garifuna Center, one thing is sure: the Garifuna culture is meant to be felt. Their music, dance, and food are a joyful reminder that Belize’s beauty isn’t just in its beaches and reefs—it’s in its people, their stories, and the rhythms that bring us all together.
