BELIZE IN JANUARY - January is one of the best months to come to Belize, when the weather is typically cold in North America. Come enjoy the beaches and sun yourself with clear skies overhead and lovely balmy temperatures. Belize has it all, from jungle rainforests to the biggest living barrier reef in the world. If you’re looking for something more adventurous, you can explore the tropical jungles, cruise up the rivers to do a little bird watching or go snorkeling off the coral reef. Belize is also a great place to ring in the New Year, giving your soul, mind, and body a chance to rejuvenate and start off fresh.
New Year’s Day - The biggest parties are held on New Year’s Eve, bringing in the New Year dancing is what most Belizeans enjoy doing. However, if you’re still in the mood for dancing, major bars and nightclubs will still have parties on New Year’s Day. Horse Race in Burrel Boom - Horse racing is very popular in Belize, with races happening for most of the major holidays. On January 1st, people from all over the country visit Burrel Boom for a full day of celebrations as they cheer on their favorite horses. Belize Weather in January: January typically has mild temperatures, with intermittent rainfall. January comes right after the Christmas rush and is also in the dry season, making it a very popular month for visitors to come experience Belize. Daytime highs average around 80°F (27°C) with nights around 70°F (21°C) |
BELIZE IN FEBRUARY - I am of the opinion, that February and March are two of the best months to visit Belize. With the weather icy cold in North America, it makes for some awesome cooler, causal days here in Belize. February has an endless supply of sunny skies, and is a great time to escape the cold snow of the north. Why not come and relax on a beach, splash in a pool, and drink your favorite exotic drink. During the month of February the Caribbean waters are warm and refreshing.
San Pedro Carnival - This three-day carnival in San Pedro marks the beginning of the Easter Season. This yearly celebration starts three days before Ash Wednesday. Placencia Sidewalk Art Festival - Every year Placencia‘s sidewalks come alive with the best artwork Belize has to offer! This event will take place February 9 – 10 and is sponsored by the BTIA Placencia chapter. Belize Weather in February: February has very little rainfall and cool breezes make for very pleasant weather in February. Daytime highs average around 80°F (27°C) and nights rarely drop below 70°F (21°C), making this winter month still warm enough for T-shirts and sandals. |
BELIZE IN MARCH - March has fantastic weather here in Belize. It is one of the top tourists months for the season with countless opportunities to fish, dive, snorkel, sail and explore the country of Belize. In March you will find lush landscaping in the tropical rainforests, mountain peaks and rolling hills. March is also when many exciting festival celebrations occur throughout the country, making it the perfect time to visit the tropical paradise of Belize.
La Ruta Maya Canoe River Challenge Race - La Ruta Maya River Challenge is a grueling, multi-day canoe race traveling a meandering river route across the country of Belize. The route runs west to east along the Macal and Belize River, once the only link between San Ignacio and the bustling port of Belize City. This is a race for professional and leisure racers. Chocolate Week - Hosted by Cotton Tree Lodge, this week’s activities are centered on the history and cultivation of cacao and its transformation into craft chocolate. Maya Day - Held in the quiet area of Tumul K’in, Blue Creek Village, this day highlights the unique culture being preserved in Southern Belize. Belize Weather in March: March has almost no rainfall, so the weather is extremely pleasant for visitors celebrating Easter in Belize. Temperatures during the day are around 83F (28°C), while nights stay breezy but warm at around 74F (23°C). One of the balmiest and most enjoyable times for visitors to experience Belize. |
BELIZE IN APRIL - April for many is the best month to visit because this is when they enjoy the Easter and Spring Break celebrations. With plenty of warm sunny weather and lots of activities, April is a fantastic time to visit Belize. Whether you’re interested in exploring Maya ruins, swimming with whale sharks, tubing down a river through a series of caves or simply enjoying a lovely holiday in a tropical paradise, there’s plenty on offer in Belize in the month of April.
San Pedro Lagoon-Reef Eco-Challenge - This Eco-Challenge is a 42-mile, two-day kayak race starting on the lagoon side of Ambergris Caye, through the many lagoons in the Northern Ambergris Caye area, up to Bacalar Chico, then down to Robles Point, where all teams camp. The race ends in San Pedro Town. Easter Week Festivities across Belize - Join Belizeans from across Belize as they celebrate the Easter Season. Go to Benque Viejo del Carmen to witness Semana Santa processions, stand along the highway from Belize City to San Ignacio to see the Holy Saturday Bicycle Classic Race, and visit Burrel Boom on Easter Monday to see horse racing. Belize Weather in April: April has somewhat warmer temperatures (than February or March), although there is typically some refreshing rain showers that keep temperatures pleasantly warm and excess humidity at bay. Days can get up to around 85°F (29°C) while nights stay comfortably warm at around 76°F (24°C). |
BELIZE IN MAY - May is a great month to visit Belize for many, because numerous resorts, hotels, and tour companies start to offer huge discounts on accommodations, tours, and all inclusive vacation packages. These discounts make it more affordable for some budget travelers seeking to enjoy this amazing country. The weather is typically sunny and a bit hotter than April. There is an endless list of activities that you can partake in such as scuba diving, cave exploring, bird watching, hiking, and so much more. Another big reason to visit Belize in May is that there are fewer tourists in the country and thus you can enjoy all of the top attractions thoroughly and without rushing.
The National Agricultural & Trade Show - This trade show is held annually in the capital city of Belmopan. It highlights agricultural diversification, rodeo, livestock, handicraft displays, music, games, and food. Cashew Festival - Held in Crooked Tree Village, this Festival celebrates the cashew harvest season, where live Punta music, cashew wine, desserts, Caribbean style dishes and games are the main attractions. BTB Love Belize Sea Challenge - In this sea challenge, kayakers must endure five days of traversing across the Caribbean Sea. The route stretches from Punta Gorda in Southern Belize to Corozal in Northern Belize, totaling over 190 miles. Toledo Cacao Festival - This festival opens with a wine and chocolate evening, featuring local and international wines and chocolate-based cocktails. Saturday brings you the Taste of Toledo cooki and craft fair, with chocolate demonstrations and a host of cacao-related activities. Monkey River Festival - This is the country’s premiere Creole event and is a fun festival with traditional games for adults and children. It includes greasy pole, watermelon eating, lime and spoon, tug-of-war, three-legged race, needle and thread and sack races. Along with Jankunu stick, a challenge to all Jankunu dancers throughout Belize to come and show off their stick walking skills – an old tradition which Monkey River Village is determined to revive. Belize Weather in May: May is one of the warmer months, daytime temps are generally around 87°F (31°C), while it’s easy to enjoy the nightlife with temps falling to only around 79°F (26°C). Some light showers occur in the morning, while some nights see the occasional thunderstorm. |
BELIZE IN JUNE - Slightly cooler and with better breezes than the months of April and May, June in Belize is a wonderful time to visit. School is out, and for many their summer plans are just beginning. This is probably the best time for seafood lovers (with all the lobster festivals) going on throughout the country (celebrate the kick off), to lobster season. The islands of Ambergris Caye and Caulker Caye, each hold their own special lobster festivals. June is also a great time to visit Belize as airfare from the United States is more affordable than ever. Major airlines like Delta, American Airlines and Southwest all run specials, and Belize is only 3-5 hours’ flying time from several major American cities.
Lobster Festivals in San Pedro, Placencia, & Caye Caulker - In celebration of the opening of the lobster season, San Pedro, Placencia, and Caye Caulker offer a week full of activities. A wide array of dishes are showcased and activities such as fishing tournaments, bicycle races, and social events take place. Dia de San Pedro - San Pedro day is a major event in Ambergris Caye. The community comes out on that day to celebrate the island’s patron saint and honor the fishermen and founding fathers who have lead San Pedro to grow from a small fishing village to what it currently is. Celebrations include a fair, cultural dance, fishing tournaments, and parties. Mango Fest - Every year, the village of Hopkins hosts Mango Fest, a glorious celebration of the succulent mango fruit. Belize Weather in June: Temperatures start to get warmer in June, but offset by plenty of fresh Caribbean breezes, with an average daytime high of 84°F (29°C), with warm nights as well at around 80°F (27°C). Expect to see a short rain shower on most afternoons that will quickly transition to sunny skies once again. One of the most enjoyable times for visitors to experience Belize. |
BELIZE IN JULY - July is a great a great month to vacation in Belize, although it can be hot. There are fewer crowds and most resorts and hotels offering deep discounts, with school out and it being rainy season. Most airline carriers in the United States will often lower their rates, making it more affordable for many budget travelers to visit. Check with your airlines, many offer direct flights from major cities. There is lots to do in Belize during the month of July.
Pibil Fest - Held in the village of Progresso in the Corozal District, this festival celebrates the Maya culinary tradition of cooking pork. “Pibil,” meaning “buried,” refers to the tradition of wrapping the pork in a banana leaf, then burying it in a fire pit for roasting. A host of other activities round out the festival. Benque Viejo del Carmen Fiesta - This is a local fair that celebrates the day of their patron saint with cultural shows, marimba bands, food, and games. Belize Weather in July: Bear in mind, this is the heart of the summer, so it's going to be hot. July daytime highs average around 86°F (30°C), while nights stay pleasantly warm with an average of 79°F (26°C). Expect to see plentiful rain showers in the early morning, and fairly frequent thunderstorms during the night. Fishing, diving and snorkeling opportunities are fantastic during this month. |
BELIZE IN AUGUST - August can be another hot month here in Belize, its still considered part of the rainy season which brings with it humidity and hotter temperatures. August in Belize is filled with balmy weather and lots of sunshine. There are fewer crowds and lots of advantageous discounts on tours and lodging. Hurricane season typically starts around August 5th, so many hotels are eager to offer travelers discounts. If you do travel in August (or anytime between now and November), be sure and get trip insurance. Because even the best of plans can be spoiled by an unexpected hurricane.
The International Costa Maya Festival - Held in downtown San Pedro. The huge festival hosts Central American and Mexican music groups and beauty queens, as well as cultural dances, international cuisine, and arts and crafts. Tres Pescados Slam Tournament - Every summer, the largest fly-fishing event in Belize takes place in Ambergris Caye. Over twenty teams participate in this tournament looking for the coveted Grand Slam of bonefish, permit, and tarpon. La Fiesta de San Joaquin - This festival is a cultural extravaganza celebrated in San Joaquin Village in Corozal in honor of the community’s patron saint. Belize Weather in August: As the rainy season takes a break, August is known locally as the “Little Dry” month. The weather in Belize in August stays nice and warm, with daytime highs of about 86°F (30°C), while nights stay balmy at 78°F (26°C), making it perfect beach and swimming weather. |
BELIZE IN SEPTEMBER - Ambergris Caye, as well as other placed in Belize for the most part shut down for the months of September & October. This is when hoteliers will take their own personal vacations or repair their businesses before high-season starts again. For this reason you can expect to find some amazing deals, if you're willing to travel when things are slow. Airlines offer really competitive rates, and many resorts & lodges offer discounts. September can be an active hurricane month, so you'll want to check weather reports and stay abreast of any changes in the Atlantic. September is also when Belizeans celebrate their independence. This is typically a month-long celebration of their national heritage and history.
Carnival Road March - This yearly march through the streets of Belize highlights our many cultures and history. J’ouvert - Over a thousand partygoers engage in this annual paint and chocolate festival through the streets of Belize City. This event is done on the morning of Carnival Day. September 10th - This public and bank holiday is the celebration of the Battle of St. George’s Caye Day. Official ceremonies, citizens’ parades and street festivals are held nationwide, which include food, live music and a re-enactment of the actual site. September 21st - The official Independence Day ceremonies and parade are held. This public and bank holiday is the celebration of the country’s Independence. Official Independence Day ceremonies and parades are held as well as numerous cultural, religious and sporting events. Belize Weather in September: Expect to see a brief resumption of regular rains during this month, especially early in the morning and during the night, but most days stay sunny and clear. Daytime temps average about 81°F (27°C), while nights stay pleasant with a low of 77°F (25°C). |
BELIZE IN OCTOBER - Much like September, Belize shuts down for the month. You'll find some business are closed, others opened with modified business hours. This is when many hoteliers will take their personal vacations or repair businesses before the start of high-season. The month of October offers some killer deals on hotel and vacation packages. Weather in North America is just starting to get cold, this translates to cooler temperatures in Belize. October is a great month for plenty of sunshine and tropical weather. The weather is perfect for sailing, snorkeling, swimming, or enjoying any one of the many activities there are to do. October is when the annual bird festival takes place, so you may not want to miss that.
Annual Belize Bird Festival - An annual festival where bird lovers flock from all over the world for their common love of birds. Belize Weather in October: The rainy season begins in earnest, with more regular bouts of heavier rainfall. Occasionally, stronger rain storms known as “Northers” will bring plenty of precipitation, especially in the region of the Maya Mountains, which can see heavy rain for days at a stretch. Daytime highs are slightly cooler, with a high of about 79°F (26°C), and lows reaching around 75°F (24°C). |
BELIZE IN NOVEMBER - November may mean cold winds and wintry weather in North America, but balmy temperatures and sunny skies in Belize make it the perfect time to visit. With the big crowds arriving later for Christmas and New Years, November is the ideal time to enjoy fabulous weather with plenty of affordable deals on tours, transportation, and lodging at some of the top resorts and lodges in the country.
Belize International Film Festival - This festival showcases top Central American and Caribbean films. Battle of the Drums - A celebration of Garifuna music and culture with live performances by some of the foremost musicians at work today. The Battle of the Drums is a Garifuna drumming competition, allowing drumming groups to compete and showcase their musical talents in playing five different categories of Garifuna music. Garifuna Settlement Day - November 19th marks the arrival of the Garifuna people to Stann Creek and is mainly celebrated in Southern Belize. The reenactment of their arrival is the main attraction, with religious, cultural and parade activities continuing for the rest of the day. Thanksgiving - All of Belize celebrates Thanksgiving and you can surely expect restaurants and resorts to be serving turkey dinner and other Thanksgiving treats. As to why Belize celebrates Thanksgiving, some say it’s due to the American Media’s influence in Belize, however, it is also due to religion. Belize Weather in November: The coolest month in this tropical nation, daytime highs average about 76°F (24°C), with nights dipping down to around 73°F (23°C). Although these temperatures seem warm to visitors from America and Canada, this marks the beginning of winter for locals. |
BELIZE IN DECEMBER - December might herald cold winds and snow across North America, but it’s a month of long, sunny days and warm temperatures perfect for snorkeling, swimming, sailing, and hiking in Belize. With all of the top airlines, including Delta, United, American, and Southwest, offering non-stop service from the United States, it’s now easier and more affordable than ever to enjoy an exotic getaway vacation in Belize. Whether you’re an adventure traveler, want to celebrate your honeymoon, or simply looking for a fun family vacation, Belize has something for everyone.
Holiday Boat Lighting Parade - During the holiday season, boats are decorated and sail from Boca del Rio to Coconuts Hotel in San Pedro. Prizes are awarded to the boats depicting best creativity and overall design. The award party has something fun for the entire family. Christmas Day - This is a national holiday and most restaurants and stores are closed except for popular restaurants and resorts. On this day locals have backyard family BBQs and stay home all day, however, the younger crowds usually go out with friends at nighttime. Boxing Day - The day after Christmas is also a holiday and most Belizeans head to the racetracks for a day filled with happy cheering and lots of drinking. The biggest horse racing event takes place in the village of Burrell Boom near Belize City but in the twin towns of San Ignacio and Santa Elena there is also a lively smaller event. New Year’s Eve - Since Christmas Eve and Christmas are usually days that Belizeans spend with their families, New Year’s Eve is when everyone goes out to party with friends. Some people, of course, will also party with their family on New Year’s Eve but it is most common for individuals to go to a nightclub and bring in the New Year with their partners and friends. So hit up a nightclub or bar and get your dance on! Belize Weather in December: This month usually starts with plenty of rain, but the end of the year heralds the start of the dry season. The last month of the year sees daytime highs at a pleasant average of 80°F (27°C), while nights average around 75°F (24°C), making Belize the perfect place to enjoy a balmy Christmas on the beach. |