Major Milestones Happening in Belize September Celebrations 2025
Locals from home and abroad will come together to honor their heritage through fun-filled festivities celebrating milestone anniversaries in 2025. These activities are deeply rooted in unity, freedom, and patriotism, commemorating the Battle of St. George’s Caye, the crowning of the Queen of the Bay, Carnival, and Independence.
Carnival – 50 Years
Carnival is one of the highly anticipated events during the Belize September Celebrations, inviting locals and travelers to dance through the streets! The idea of Carnival was first sparked by Henry Young, a member of the Committee of Forty. However, it was brought to life by the Belizean Women for Cultural Preservation in 1975. Carnival was born as a local celebration to bring liveliness to the September 10th parade through creativity and love for the country. Fifty years later, Carnival has transformed into elaborate costumes that capture the attention of many, prompting them to join in every year!
Queen of the Bay – 80 Years
The Loyal and Patriotic Order of the Baymen (LPOB) wanted a symbol of sovereignty after Guatemalan ships were spotted near the Bay of Honduras (Belize City). Civil servants and members of LPOB, Monrad Metzgen and Roderick Augustus Pitts, wrote and organized the first Queen of the Bay pageant in 1946. In the early years, delegates represented houses named after individuals who served in World War II and the Battle of St. George’s Caye, such as Barrow, Fairweather, Moss, and Brackett. Rita Lewis was the first Queen of the Bay.
By 1949, the pageant was open to participants outside Belize City, and Leta Fuller of Stann Creek District captured the title. The pageant is ever-evolving and takes place annually, making it one of the longest-running pageants in the world, with an unbroken line. Traditionally, it happens on the last Saturday in August, and the reigning Queen crowns the Queen Designate on September 10th at the official Battle of St. George’s Caye Day ceremony.
Battle of St. George’s Caye – 227 Years
The Battle of St. George’s Caye remains one of the most significant events observed during the Belize September Celebrations. British settlers occupied the territory since 1638, exploiting logwood and mahogany. The battle dates back to 1798, when British settlers (Baymen) and enslaved Africans defeated the Spanish invaders. The Spaniards launched their first attempt on September 3rd, 1798. However, after several encounters at sea, the Baymen, along with enslaved Africans, emerged victorious on September 10th.
St. George’s Caye is located 8 miles off the coast of Belize City, and it was the first capital of Belize. To honor the battle, they declared September 10th a public and bank holiday on August 26th, 1898. The pivotal victory secured the settlement and made Belize the only English-speaking country in Central America.
Independence – 44 Years
Independence Day is a monumental day in Belizean history! The path to independence began in 1949 when the British devalued the dollar, causing hardships across the country. In response, John Smith, Leigh Richardson, Philip Goldson, and George Price formed the People’s Committee. This group evolved into the People’s United Party in September 1950 with a mission for independence.
By 1957, George Price emerged as the leader of the nationalist movement, and Belize gained self-government in 1964. Though self-governance was a success, full independence remained the ultimate goal for Price and the people of Belize. In 1973, the country officially changed its name from British Honduras to Belize as steps drew nearer to achieving independence. Eight years later, on September 21st, 1981, the Union Jack came down and the Belizean flag flew high! Belize became a nation independent from British colonial rule under the leadership of Hon. George Cadle Price. He was the country’s first Prime Minister and known as the Father of Independence.
Belize September Celebrations 2025 overflows with historic moments. Each milestone reflects resilience and national pride. As the nation celebrates, it honors the past and inspires future generations to preserve their cultural heritage!
