The Caye Caulker Lobster Fest is an annual community event that celebrates the opening of Belize’s lobster season. During this time, locals and tourists gather in Caye Caulker to party on the beach and eat as many types of lobster dishes as they can. This year, the Lobster Festival in Caye Caulker will take place over the long weekend of July 14th – 16th.
History
Caye Caulker‘s Lobster Fest is the original lobster festival in Belize and it was founded in 1994 by the Islanders Veterans Football Club. It all commenced when team members of the football team came up with the idea of celebrating the opening of the lobster season.
The team consisted of local fishermen under the captainship of Mr. Porfelio Guzman and Vice Captain Mr. Jerry Badillo Jr. who are both fishermen. They supported the idea and the first festival was held in July 1994. July was the opening of the lobster season.
The festival is the biggest event celebrated on the Island and attracts a lot of locals and tourists. Today under new management, Caye Caulker Lobster Fest is still the number one event celebrated on Caye Caulker and has attracted international attention from many countries. In addition, the event continues to develop in many aspects for the betterment of the Caye.
The Festival starts on a Friday with the crowing of Miss Lobster Fest and last until Sunday with an all-day beach party and the closing of the festival. Highlights every year are the Grand Opening Ceremonies held on Saturdays, the display of live Lobsters, weighing in of the biggest Lobster for the weekend, the main dance event hosted on Saturday Night, and of course all sorts of delicious and mouth-watering Lobster dishes. The atmosphere at Lobster Fest is always a festive one of fun, activities, and enjoyment for everyone from the youngest to the oldest family member.
50% of the festival’s income is generated back into the community, such as supporting the Caye Caulker Roman Catholic School.
