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.
This year’s nationwide celebrations took place under the theme “Afeduha waméi wagücha, afareinha waméi wanichigu – Celebrating the roots of Garifuna culture!” The festivities leading up to November 19th (Garifuna Settlement Day) typically begin early in the week with nightly drumming sessions at primary schools and Central Park. The day before the holiday, a parade is held on the main streets of San Pedro Town, culminating at the Boca del Rio beach park for an all-night cultural celebration. However, this time, San Pedro Garifuna Council President Eden Velasquez announced that all these events were canceled due to Tropical Storm Sara.
In the week leading up to November 19th, the country closely monitored and prepared for the arrival of a weather system. As the storm intensified on November 14th, Velasquez announced that all performers and a stage transported to the island had to be returned to the mainland. By the time the National Emergency Management Organization issued the “All Clear” on Sunday, November 17th, Velasquez noted that it was too late to resume the planned celebrations for this year.
Despite these challenges, drumming and festivities occurred south of San Pedro. One such celebration happened in the DFC area, where people enjoyed food, music, and dancing late into the night on November 18th. The main celebrations in the Cultural Capital of Dangriga Town in southern Belize were held without any hindrance the following day. Activities were also held in Punta Gorda Town in the southern District of Toledo, along with other Garifuna communities along the coast on the mainland.
