Belize in September! Here’s how Belizeans Celebrate

belize carnival
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September is one of the best times to visit Belize! Yes, it’s the rainy season, which runs concurrent with the Caribbean’s Hurricane Season, but this brings a few benefits with it.

September is the tourism off-season which means it’s great for tourists seeking cheaper prices on accommodations and tours, and it’s a festive month filled with local celebrations. Many patriotic celebrations occur in September, including Belize’s Independence Day and the Battle of St. George’s Caye.

Weather in September

Average Number of Rainy Days and Rainfall in Belize by Month

The weather in Belize in September is somewhat similar to August. The average daytime temperature hovers around 88°F (31°C) with nighttime lows of around 78°F (26°C).

The country does see more rain in September compared to August but unless there’s a tropic storm or full day of rain, you’ll have plenty of time for activities. As I’ve mentioned in other blogs, during Belize’s rainy season, brief morning or afternoon showers are typical but it only rains intensely for 1 or 2 hours and then all the rainwater disappears as it seeps into the soil.

September Celebrations – Things to Do

Sir Barry's Belikin Bash in Belize City

The most important date for September festivities is September 21st, which is Belize’s Independence Day. But for almost two weeks leading up to that day, there are many events throughout the country. Below are a few examples of what to expect.

Belikin Beer Bash (Sept. 1st & 2nd)

Every year, Bowen and Bowen, the makers of Belikin Beer throw a huge party to celebrate the start of the September celebrations. There are tons of food, music, and of course, beers. This event typically takes place at BTL Park in Belize City on the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd.

J’ouvert (Sept. 9th)

Over a thousand party-goers engage in the annual paint and chocolate festival through the streets of Belize City. Participants dance covered in paint and powder, as they celebrate the start of the Carnival season. This event is done in the early morning hours on Carnival Day.

Carnival (Sept. 9th)

Similar to celebrations held in several Caribbean and Latin American countries, Belize’s Carnival draws hundreds of performers and spectators to the streets of Belize City. Thousands of bystanders watch as performers march and dance to the tunes of popular music in elaborate costumes vying for the title of king and queen of Carnival.

Battle of St. George’s Caye (Sept. 10th)

The Battle of St. George’s Caye is celebrated on September 10 and typically marks the beginning of the major September celebrations. Starting on this day, radio stations play patriotic music and people proudly wear the country’s colors. Crowds gather at town squares, people have family picnics, and there are public dances.

The Expo (Sept. 16th and 17th)

The Expo Belize Market Place held at the Marion Jones Sports Complex in Belize City is one of the largest events in the country. It is highly popular, and many citizens attend to participate in a wide range of activities from dancing and singing to shopping with local vendors and enjoying delicious local food.

Independence Day (Sept. 21st)

Belize’s Independence Day is on September 21. There are numerous local parades and marches that take place throughout the country in large and small towns alike. These may feature floats, bands, marchers and many people dressed in cultural attire and the country’s colours of red, white and blue. Although most parades are held on September 21, some parades are held on different days during the almost two-week-long festivities.


Live Musical Concerts

In addition, there are live music concerts planned throughout the country each year. These may be smaller events that are held in villages as well as grand celebrations that bring together hundreds or even thousands of people. These events often are a celebration of the culture of the country, but they also display the citizen’s deep level of patriotism.

Children’s Events

While the national events are designed for those of all ages, some events are planned each year, especially for the kids. One of the more popular events is the talent show competition. While some of the children who participate in the events have talents that are not related to the country or patriotism, others may sing patriotic tunes or play musical instruments. These are fun events for the participants as well as for the audience.

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  1. Debbie says

    Belize has always been one of my top favorite vacation spots and I would love to retire there one day!! Thank you for the info and insight!!

  2. Pips Spratt says

    What date in September will the Belize City carnival this year be? I've tried to find the information online but can't. It sounds like the parade in Belize City is before Independence Day on the 21st?

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