Belize Public Holidays 2025
Belize has 13 public holidays and 1 observances in 2025. Explore the full holiday calendar below.
All Holidays
| Date | Day | Name | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Jan | Wed | New Year's Day | public |
| 10 Mar | Mon | Baron Bliss Day | public |
| 18 Apr | Fri | Good Friday | public |
| 19 Apr | Sat | Easter Saturday | public |
| 20 Apr | Sun | Easter Sunday | observance |
| 21 Apr | Mon | Easter Monday | public |
| 1 May | Thu | Labour Day | public |
| 26 May | Mon | Commonwealth Day, Sovereign's Day | public |
| 10 Sep | Wed | Saint George's Caye Day, National Day | public |
| 22 Sep | Mon | Independence Day | public |
| 13 Oct | Mon | Day of the Americas | public |
| 19 Nov | Wed | Garifuna Settlement Day | public |
| 25 Dec | Thu | Christmas Day | public |
| 26 Dec | Fri | Boxing Day | public |
About Belize's Holidays
Belize has a mix of national, public, and cultural holidays that reflect its history and diverse peoples. National days like Independence Day are big, patriotic events with parades, music, and flag displays across the country.
Cultural celebrations are lively and colorful. Garifuna Settlement Day honors Garifuna heritage with drumming, dancing, and special foods. Carnival and other festivals feature floats, calypso, soca music, and street parties drawing locals and tourists.
Religious holidays such as Holy Week and Christmas are widely observed with church services, family gatherings, and community events. Public holidays like Labour Day and the Sovereign s Birthday provide official days off and government closures, making time for rest and celebration.
Holiday Traditions
In Belize people celebrate holidays with a warm mix of cultures. Families often start with church services or prayers. They remember history and traditions from Maya, Garifuna, Creole and Mestizo communities through songs, stories and special dances.
Food is central. Big meals include rice and beans, stew chicken, fresh seafood and sweet breads. Families gather to cook together, eat, and share recipes handed down through generations. Children enjoy treats and traditional snacks while elders tell memories and teach customs.
Public celebrations are lively. There are parades, colorful costumes, drumming and punta music. Towns light fireworks, hold fairs and beach parties. Flags, speeches and community ceremonies bring people together to celebrate Belizean identity and unity.
Travel Tips
Belize is busy during the holiday season. Many travelers visit for beaches and festivals. Book flights and hotels early because prices go up and rooms fill fast, especially on Christmas and New Year dates.
Some government offices, banks and small shops close on holidays. Tourist sites, big resorts and popular restaurants usually stay open but with shorter hours. Always check opening times before you go.
Buses run but may have limited schedules. Ferries and local flights can sell out. Taxis are common in towns. Expect some delays and heavier traffic on main roads and at airports.
Plan ahead, confirm reservations, and carry some cash for small vendors. Pack light clothes and sun protection. Be flexible and enjoy the festivities and warm weather.