Arts & Culture
Island celebrations for Garifuna Settlement Day dampened by Tropical Storm Sara
This year, Tropical Storm Sara put a damper on Garifuna Settlement Day activities on the island, leading to the cancellation of the main celebrations. Although there were drumming events at establishments operated by the Garifuna community, traditional events such as parades, large concerts, and the Yurumein (the re-enactment of the arrival of the Garifuna people in Belize) were notably absent. Despite this, the public and bank holiday allowed islanders to enjoy traditional Garifuna dishes, including the popular Hudut.
Arts & Culture
National Garifuna Council announces theme for 2024 Garifuna Settlement Day celebrations
On September 23rd, the National Garifuna Council (NGC) proudly revealed the theme for the 19th Garifuna Celebrations 2024: "Afeduha waméi wagücha, afareinha waméi wanichigu - Celebrating the roots of the Garifuna culture!" This theme, inspired by Biviana McDougall, a teacher from Gulisi Community Primary School and chosen by the committee from the Garifuna Language Commission, underscores the significance of honoring cultural, familial, and historical origins. It highlights traditions and values that have shaped the Garifuna community, emphasizing the vital role of passing down knowledge, values, and experiences to future generations.
Arts & Culture
Belizean composer Errollyn Wallen appointed Master of the King’s Music
A Belizean-born composer, pianist, singer, and songwriter, Errollyn Wallen, made history as the first black woman to be appointed as Master of the King's Music by King Charles. The appointment took place on Monday, August 26th. Wallen, known for her compositions for prestigious events, has participated in the BBC Proms, the 2012 Paralympic Games, and Queen Elizabeth II's jubilees. She succeeded Dame Judith Weir and is now the first woman to hold the 10-year position of Master of the King's Music.
Arts & Culture
Artist Tysen Knight engages island youth in a creative art workshop
On Saturday, August 10th, a Creative Workshop was held at the San Pedro House of Culture by Tysen Knight, an international artist, muralist, and award-winning filmmaker from Palm Springs, California, USA. The event was organized during Knight's visit to his long-time friends and art collectors, Catherine and Joseph Cooper. The workshop, known as the “Tysen Knight Experience,” engaged two groups of local school children and aspiring young artists in a unique hands-on art experience, igniting their creativity and providing the opportunity to put their imaginative spin on Knight’s signature pieces.
Arts & Culture
Island schools showcase diverse talents at the 2024 Festival of Arts
On Monday, May 20th, a vibrant sense of community and shared pride filled the air as students from different preschools, primary schools, and secondary schools gathered at the San Pedro edition of the Belize National Festival of Arts Annual Show. The event, which started at 9AM and ended at 12:30PM, was a testament to the rich artistic heritage of our island. Held at the Sage Brush Church in San Pedro Town, the event drew many residents eager to celebrate island students' talents.
Arts & Culture
Approval of Garifuna Language in Schools Program
The Garifuna Language Commission is proud to announce the Ministry of Education’s approval of the Garifuna Language Curriculum, the related Professional Development Plan, and the implementation of the Garifuna Language in Schools Program. This significant milestone marks a pivotal moment in the preservation and revitalization of the Garifuna language and culture.
Arts & Culture
Annual Maya Wedding Re-enactment held in Corozal Town
Santa Rita archaeological site came alive on Saturday, February 24th, with the annual Maya Wedding Re-enactment event. The Belize Tourism Industry Association (BTIA) Corozal Chapter organized the event. It featured local students and a Mexican dance company showcasing the region's rich Maya-Mestizo history and culture. Attendees enjoyed a night of music, dance, and local Mestizo cuisine.
Arts & Culture
Carnaval de San Pedro opens with first ever Comparsa Talent Show
The anticipated island celebration, El Carnaval de San Pedro, opened on Saturday, February 10th, with the first-ever Comparsa Talent Show featuring several colorful dancing groups on stage. Held at Central Park under the theme 'Tributo a la Tradicion,' the festival included live entertainment, games for the children, and booths offering tasty treats and beverages.
Arts & Culture
Learn how to dance Flamenco; limited spaces available
A collaboration between Miss San Pedro Mariel Calderon’s “Empow.Her” foundation and Flamenco dance instructor Lorena Ayala is offering the opportunity to participate in a fun and cultural dance session on Saturday, February 3rd, from 6-7PM. The dance session will be held at the San Pedro Dance Academy studio on the second level of the Lions Den on Barrier Reef Drive. Even though participation is open to the general public, only limited spaces are available. The cost is $35 to cover overhead expenses. Anyone interested can contact Miss San Pedro Calderon at 607-7115.
Arts & Culture
BTIA Corozal Chapter holds its Annual Maya Reenactment Wedding Event
The Maya Reenactment Wedding is a signature event for BTIA Corozal Chapter and one which has been developed in partnership with the Corozal Town Council, NICH and the BTB. It aims to highlight the local culture in Corozal further showcasing the touristic attributes the district has to offer. The event will be celebrated on February 24th, 2024.
Arts & Culture
Belize Receives Pro-Tempore Presidency of the Mundo Maya Organization
On December 4, on the backdrop of the Honduran Archaeology Congress held in Copan Ruinas, Honduras, Belize received the pro-tempore presidency of the Mundo Maya Organization (OMM) from the Republic of Honduras, the outgoing president.
