Closer Than Ever: Connect from Europe to Belize starting in 2027!
If you’re in Europe and dream of visiting Belize, that dream is becoming a reality: expanded international service from Europe to Belize starts in 2027! Discover Airlines will launch seasonal service from Frankfurt, Germany, to Belize City beginning December 16, 2027. Flights will run twice weekly on Thursdays and Saturdays through mid-April 2028.
It’s the perfect reason to leave frigid European winter behind for Belize’s golden sunshine and tropical vibes during the dry season (blue season). Plan a Christmas getaway to Belize in 2027 to experience the many traditions dotted across the country. Here are some cultural staples of Christmas in Belize!
Las Posadas
Discover Airlines’ inaugural flight in 2027 coincides with the start of Las Posadas, a cherished tradition in catholic communities in Northern and Western Belize. It reenacts Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem to give birth to Jesus Christ. Las Posadas begins on December 15 and lasts nine nights as a procession sings hymns and prays with statues of the holy couple asking for “lodging.” They are rejected twice, and on the third attempt, the family that accepts them offers delicacies such as conservas (fruit preserves), horchata (rice drink), and maja blanca (rice porridge). It ends with “La Misa de Gallo,” the Christmas Eve midnight mass.
Deer Dance
The Deer Dance is a ceremonial Maya performance that combines music, dance, rituals, and storytelling. As the tradition has been revived in recent years, it has become the heartbeat of Maya communities in Western and Southern Belize. It depicts the life of a Maya man and his family as they survive in the rainforest with predators and Spanish colonizers. The Deer Dance comprises over 20 participants in colorful attire adorned with mirrors and intricate embroidery, dancing to melodious marimba tunes.
Wanaragua
Wanaragua, meaning “mask” in Garifuna, is a sought-after tradition for its high-energy dancing and communal gatherings. Its name directly reflects the masked dances performed, called “Jankunu” and “Charikanari.” Jankunu satirizes British colonizers, with dancers wearing pink-faced masks, ribbon-embellished attire, and elaborate headpieces. It is the only Garifuna dance in which the performer controls the drumbeat’s rhythm. Charikanari, also called Two-foot Cow, is a theatrical performance in which a man wears a cow-shaped mask with horns and an exaggerated, rare end. Join the group as they dance from house to house!
Krismos Bram and Sambai
Recently inducted onto UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, this generations-old Creole tradition is even more highly anticipated. Krismos Bram and Sambai is celebrated popularly in Gales Point Manatee Village, a maroon, Creole coastal community. Bramming is a lively call-and-response performance with drumming, plus authentic food and treats, on Christmas and Boxing Day. After traveling along the peninsula for Krismos Bram, the celebration wraps up with a small bonfire for “jump Sambai!”
Grand Ball
As Christmas celebrations wind down, Grand Ball commemorates the New Year with antique ballroom-style dancing, including Waltz, English Quadrille, Lancer, Polka, and more. The gala began in the 1900s and takes place in Dangriga, Hopkins, and Georgetown. Women wear long, tailor-made dresses, and men look dapper in tuxedos or button-down shirts and trousers. It is a unique experience and a step back in time, with classical dances.
Though Discover Airlines starts flying from Europe to Belize in time for the Christmas season, much more happens in Belize until April 2028.
Placencia Sidewalk Festival
If you’re an art enthusiast, the Placencia Sidewalk Festival will surely captivate you! Stroll along the beach and the famous sidewalk to browse the variety of art on display. Intricate paintings, abstract pottery, colorful jewelry, and well-crafted woodwork will tempt you to buy so many Belizean-made keepsakes. The vibrant event, which supports local artisans, is also complemented by delicious food and enjoyable entertainment.
San Pedro Carnaval
Maya and Mestizo refugees brought the Carnaval tradition from Yucatan, Mexico, after the Caste War (Guerra de Castas). Today, people widely celebrate it in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye! It features La Pintadera, a colorful paint-and-powder experience at the central park. Then, there are Comparsas, theatrical songs and dances as a form of satire of social issues and recent events. They dance through the streets and perform from house to house! They’re exciting, enduring festivities before the solemnity of the Easter season.
La Ruta Maya River Challenge
March is synonymous with the La Ruta Maya River Challenge! The canoe race is steeped in history, conservation, and tradition, and takes place the weekend celebrating National Heroes and Benefactors Day. Paddlers line off under the Hawksworth Bridge in Cayo to kick off the four-day race along Belize’s winding rivers. Families and friends look forward to following the race from start to finish each day, patronizing small communities as they eagerly wait to cheer their team.
Exhilarated spectators and support teams give paddlers the boost they need to push forward under grueling conditions, like tropical heat or, surprisingly, rainfall! Still, nothing is more rewarding than reaching the finish line, especially on the final day in Belize City. Add participating in The La Ruta Maya River Challenge to your Belize bucket list!
Baron Bliss Harbor Regatta
Go from a canoe race on the river to a sailing competition at sea to commemorate Baron Bliss, one of Belize’s greatest benefactors. After launching in 1972, the Baron Bliss Harbor Regatta also takes place on National Heroes and Benefactors Day in Belize City. Sailing clubs from across the country, including Gails Point, Corozal, Caye Caulker, San Pedro, and Placencia, gather to compete for the title! It is another great way to immerse in Belizean heritage and fun-filled festivities.
So, there is plenty of time to plan your Belize vacation itinerary! After traveling from Europe to Belize, make the most of the many adventures and activities the country offers, from rainforest to reef! Engage in community tourism and traditions to deepen your appreciation for Belize and feel at home.