In Belize, September is a month alive with energy and pride. Known locally as “The September Celebrations,” it’s the most festive time of year, when patriotic spirit, cultural traditions, and lively street parades fill every corner of the country. For Belizeans, it’s a heartfelt tribute to history, independence, and heritage. For visitors, it’s an open invitation to join the revelry and experience the nation at its most vibrant.
Key September Celebrations in Belize
𝓢𝓽. 𝓖𝓮𝓸𝓻𝓰𝓮’𝓼 𝓒𝓪𝔂𝓮 𝓓𝓪𝔂 (September 10) commemorates the 1798 Battle of St. George’s Caye, when the Baymen (European settlers and enslaved Africans) defended Belize from Spanish forces. Celebrated with parades, patriotic ceremonies, and cultural performances. Locals wear red, white, and blue (the national colors) and proudly wave Belizean flags.
𝓑𝓮𝓵𝓲𝔃𝓮 𝓘𝓷𝓭𝓮𝓹𝓮𝓷𝓭𝓮𝓷𝓬𝓮 𝓓𝓪𝔂 (September 21) marks Belize’s independence from Britain in 1981. The biggest celebration of the year, featuring the famous Independence Eve Carnival Road March with dancers in elaborate costumes, steel pan music, and street parties. Fireworks light up the skies on the night of September 20.
How to Celebrate Like a Local
Join the Parades
Locals line the streets for the Carnival Road March in Belize City and Independence parades in towns like Orange Walk, Dangriga, San Pedro Town and San Ignacio. Dancing in the streets with the crowd is part of the fun.
Wear Patriotic Colors
Dress in red, white, and blue, often with glitter, face paint, or flag-themed accessories.
Enjoy Local Food & Drinks
Street vendors sell rice and beans, tamales, garnaches, and plenty of rum punch or Belikin beer. Sharing food and drinks is a big part of the celebrations.
Dance to Punta & Soca
Music is central to the festivities. Punta (Garifuna music and dance) and soca dominate the soundscape, with live bands and DJs keeping the energy high.
Decorate Your Home or Vehicle
Belizeans decorate houses, cars, and even bicycles with flags, balloons, and streamers.
Attend Cultural Events: Beyond parades, there are pageants, concerts, and patriotic competitions like the Tenth of September Bram (a street party with live music).
Tips for Visitors
Stay Hydrated
The heat and dancing can be intense, so locals always balance rum punch with plenty of water.
Be Street-Smart
Stick with crowds during late-night events, as locals do.
Learn a Few Phrases
Saying “Happy Independence!” or “Happy 10th!” will instantly connect you with Belizeans.
Respect Traditions
While it’s a party atmosphere, Belizeans also take pride in the historical meaning of these days. Celebrating September in Belize means embracing the joy, music, and unity of the people. If you dive into the parades, taste the food, and dance alongside the locals, you’ll experience the month in the most authentic way.
Day-by-Day Guide to September Celebrations in Belize
September 1–9: The Build-Up
What Happens: Towns and villages begin decorating with flags, banners, and lights. Patriotic concerts, school parades, and pageants (like Miss Belize, Miss San Pedro and Queen of the Bay) take place.
Local Tip: Visit Orange Walk Town, famous for its pre-celebration street parties and tacos.
September 10: St. George’s Caye Day
Morning: Attend the official ceremony and parade in Belize City or Belmopan.
Afternoon: Join the Bram (street party) with live drumming, soca, and punta music. School “uniform” parades throughout the country.
Food to Try: Garnaches, salbutes, and a cold Belikin beer.
Local Tip: Belizeans greet each other with “Happy 10th!” all day.
September 11–19: Carnival Fever
What Happens: This is the lead-up to Independence, and the energy builds.
September 12–15: Schoolchildren perform patriotic songs and dances.
September 16–19: Carnival groups rehearse in the streets—catch them practicing in Belize City.
Local Tip: Head to Dangriga for Garifuna drumming nights, or San Ignacio for smaller but lively parades.
September 20: Independence Eve
Evening: Towns across Belize host flag-raising ceremonies at midnight.
Night: Street parties and live concerts go until dawn. Belize City has the biggest fireworks show, but San Ignacio’s “Jump-Up” is legendary.
Food & Drink: Street BBQ, rum punch, and ceviche are everywhere.
Local Tip: Belizeans pace themselves—party late, but save energy for the next day.
September 21: Independence Day
Morning: Watch the Independence Day Parade in Belize City, Orange Walk, San Pedro Town (afternoon) or Belmopan. Floats, marching bands, and dancers in glittering costumes fill the streets.
Afternoon: Join the Carnival Road March in Belize City, where revelers dance in the streets to soca and punta.
Evening: Each town has its own street party with DJs and live bands.
Local Tip: Orange Walk is known for the biggest Independence Day parade outside Belize City, with a mix of music trucks, dancers, and food stalls.
September 22–30: Post-Independence Festivities
What Happens: While the biggest events are over, smaller towns continue with fairs, rodeos, and cultural nights.
Local Tip: Visit Corozal for a more laid-back vibe or Placencia or San Pedro Town for beach parties.
Click here for full schedule of events countrywide
