Tag:
Garifuna Settlement Day
Community and Society
Belize Prepares to Welcome Duchess of Edinburgh
Her Royal Highness Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh and member of the British Royal Family, is scheduled to visit Belize from November 16th to 19th. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade, Culture, and Immigration announced Her Royal Highness’ official visit on Monday, November 10th, the same day she began a regional tour that includes Peru, Panama, and Guatemala before concluding her trip in Belize.
Arts & Culture
Garifuna Flag-Raising Ceremony Opens Settlement Day Celebrations in San Pedro
On Friday, October 31st, the Garifuna community in San Pedro gathered at Central Park at 8PM for a flag-raising ceremony, marking the start of cultural festivities leading up to Garifuna Settlement Day on November 19th. The evening featured cultural presentations, traditional dances, and rhythmic drumming, proudly showcasing the rich heritage of the Garinagu on the island.
Community and Society
Steven Cruz to Lead New National Garifuna Council San Pedro Branch
A new executive board headed by Steven Cruz was elected on Sunday, September 28th, to lead the National Garifuna Council (NGC) San Pedro Branch. The election, held in San Pedro Town and presided over by NGC President Alex Nolberto, resulted in the selection of Cruz as president, Alex Noralez as vice president, Eden Velásquez as secretary, Florett Flowers as assistant secretary, Julie Zúñiga as treasurer, Gene Lopez as assistant treasurer, Joseph Elijio as delegate, and Elroy Castillo as alternate delegate.
Community and Society
The National Garifuna Council Meets with San Pedro Branch
The new Executive Committee of the National Garifuna Council (NGC) visited San Pedro on Saturday, August 30th, and met with the island’s branch members. The meeting at the Black and White Garifuna Restaurant focused on strengthening the branch, preparing for the election of new local leaders, and planning for the upcoming Garifuna Settlement Day celebrations on November 19.
Sports
Team Reel Nauti conquers this year’s Overseas Fishing Rodeo
The second Overseas Fishing Rodeo, honoring Garifuna Settlement Day, was held on Sunday, November 24th, at Overseas Bar and Grill in the Boca del Rio Area. 18 teams participated in the day-long competition, where the best anglers vied for the grand prize. This year, the coveted trophy was awarded to Team Reel Nauti, who also caught the heaviest Wahoo, weighing 29.8 pounds. Team Reel Nauti brought in a total of four Wahoo, which contributed to their victory in the tournament.
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.
Government
2025 Public and Bank Holiday Schedule Announced
On Monday, October 21st, the Government of Belize officially announced the public and bank holiday schedule for 2025. These holidays, as outlined in the First and Second Schedules of the Holidays Act (Chapter 289 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition 2011), will be observed on specific dates throughout the year 2025, in accordance with Section 3 of the Act.
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.