What to Expect in November & December on Ambergris Caye

We are starting to see more tourists on the island.  Tempatures are dropping up north so it makes complete sense.  (Calgary will see a high temperature of only15 degrees F today)

But the real influx – the first official wave of HIGH SEASON (by my standards) is Christmas week.  It is, perhaps, the busiest week for visitors of the year.  Some hotels are already full, many golf carts are rented for that week…

November and December are a great time to visit.  Until Christmas week, smaller crowds and good deals AND get out of the cold!

Here are some things coming up in the 52 days before Christmas Day.  And check out this post for some decorations made of Belikin crates and conch shells, lobster traps and lights to get you in the spirit!

November 19th  – Garifuna Settlement Day is the official holiday of November in Belize.  It’s an amazing holiday that celebrates SUCH a unique culture that is special to Belize.  It celebrates the beautiful landing of the Garifuna people on the shores of Belize.

SO special that UNESCO recognizes that Garifuna culture as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

The largest celebrations are in Punta Gorda (the far south)…

and Dangriga and Hopkins but it is a holiday all over the country.

And who needs an excuse to eat DELICIOUS Garifuna food if you can get your hands on it.  Check out San Pedro’s ONLY Garifuna restaurant — Black and White Garifuna Cultural Center, just south of town.

November 23rd

Here’s a look at the pretty simple Thanksgiving that I had last year – simple and delicious.  This year I’m going to do it up a bit more- fire up the oven and everything.

Many restaurants will be doing Thanksgiving dinner – if you are here that week, make a reservation at your favorite place for turkey AND ham (Belize always does both).

The beginning of December is relatively low key but after the Christmas tree lighting in Central Park – usually in the first days of December and announced on the San Pedro Town Council’s facebook page, the entire town gets decorated.

No matter when you are here in December, definitely rent a golf cart and check out the decorations in town and around town.

Checking out the Christmas lights in shorts, flip flops and with a Belikin in hand might be the best thing ever.

Truck Stop Holiday Craft Fair & Christmas Tree Lighting — December 9th

This lighting was PACKED last year and the craft fair was great for getting some gifts for you OR your friends.

Put this on your calendar!

LoveFM’s Lighted Parade – Dec 10th

This parade starts north of town and makes its way to Central Park.  It’s become a huge holiday tradition as the nation’s favorite radio station sponsors music and lights and CANDY.

Here is a look at last year’s parade.  Things start just after the sun sets.  And the kids go CRAZY.

Lighted Boat Parade – December 16th

I love this event so much.  Warm weather, laying on a dock or sitting on the beach and watching a handful of boats bobbing on the sea.  The entire town is out – kids are dressed up – the atmosphere is SO fun.

Here’s my blog about last year’s event.  And a few pictures.

I’m going to put all of this on my calendar today.  Promise.

And businesses please remember that you can add your events to the calendar as well!  Please check it out – a great way to get your information before thousands of people daily!