In Belize, Easter marks one of the most meaningful and widely observed holidays on the calendar. It’s a time when the pace of life slows, families come together, and the country’s diverse cultural and spiritual roots take center stage. Observed from Holy Thursday through Easter Monday, the long Easter weekend blends cherished rituals, lively events, and timeless traditions passed down through generations. Let’s take a closer some at some of the Belize Easter traditions you should know about.
Beloved Easter Bites (Hot Cross Buns)
Step into any Belizean bakery during Easter week, and the sweet aroma of Creole buns will likely be the first thing to greet you. These soft, spiced rolls are marked with a signature cross and often eaten with a slice of cheese or a slab of butter. While some families bake their own, many line up early at local shops to secure a couple loaves before they sell out.
Beach Days—and a Curious Superstition
Once Good Friday has passed, the coastline comes alive. From Placencia to Caye Caulker, families take to the beaches for sun-soaked afternoons filled with music, food, and good company. But on Good Friday, some superstitious persons might avoid the water entirely. A widely shared superstition warns that swimming on this holy day could lead to turning into a mermaid. Some laugh it off, others take it seriously—but either way, beach day officially begins on Saturday.
Religious Reenactments
Good Friday also marks one of the most solemn days on the Easter calendar. Across Belize, communities stage religious processions and live reenactments of the Passion of Christ. Participants dress in costume and walk through town streets, retracing the final hours of Jesus’ life. These events are both theatrical and deeply spiritual.
Sawdust Carpets in Benque Viejo
In the western town of Benque Viejo del Carmen, streets are transformed into open-air canvases during Easter week. Local artists and families work together to craft intricate sawdust carpets, designed with colored sawdust, stencils, and hours of patience. The carpets often feature Christian imagery, floral motifs, and Maya-influenced patterns.
Off to the Races
Holy Saturday brings with it the legendary Cross Country Cycling Classic. It’s a grueling race that starts in Belize City, heads west to San Ignacio, and returns along the George Price Highway. The event is broadcast live across the country and draws massive crowds who line the route to cheer on their favorite riders.
Meanwhile, in Burrell Boom, Easter weekend is all about horse racing. A long-standing rural tradition, the races feature a full day of friendly betting, barbecue, and live music.
Make It Yours: Create New Belize Easter Traditions at Casa Al Mar
For those craving a more tranquil take on Easter, the cayes offer a peaceful retreat. Casa Al Mar, located on the quiet shores of St. George’s Caye, provides an idyllic setting to soak in the season. The sea is calm, the skies are clear, and the sunsets stretch long into the evening.
Guests can spend the day kayaking, snorkeling, or simply enjoying the view from a hammock. Our spacious home is perfect for family gatherings or small group getaways, and with everything you need at your fingertips, the only thing left to do is relax.
Belize’s Easter traditions offer a chance to connect with the country’s vibrant traditions and make space for meaningful moments. And at the same time, Casa Al Mar, provides an opportunity to create your own traditions.
