Placencia Art & Music Festival – Belize’s Most Colorful Beachfront Event
- Craig Densham
- Nov 28
- 5 min read
Discover the Heart of Belize’s Creative Soul
Every year, the seaside village of Placencia, Belize, comes alive with one of the country’s most beloved celebrations — the Placencia Art & Music Festival.
Held right on the Placencia Sidewalk, this vibrant beachfront festival transforms the village into a living gallery of color, sound, and culture. Imagine palm trees swaying above, Caribbean rhythms floating through the air, and local artists displaying their work just steps from the sand.
If you’re planning a trip to Belize and love art, music, and authentic local experiences, this festival is a must-see event — and one of the best times of the year to visit Placencia.
What Is the Placencia Art & Music Festival?
The Placencia Art & Music Festival is a celebration of Belizean creativity, showcasing the best of local art, music, and culture in one unforgettable weekend.
Over two days, the Placencia Sidewalk becomes a colorful corridor of booths and exhibits featuring:
Local painters, sculptors, and photographer
Live musicians and street performers
Handcrafted jewelry, wood carvings, and textiles
Pop-up food stalls and beach bars
This is not a high-end, commercial event — it’s authentic, community-driven, and full of that warm Belizean energy that makes visitors fall in love with Placencia.
A Festival with Caribbean Flair
What makes the Placencia Art & Music Festival truly special is its setting — right beside the beach.
As you wander along the Sidewalk (once named “the narrowest main street in the world”), you’ll find art exhibits spilling onto the sand, live bands playing at tiki bars, and locals dancing barefoot in the sunshine.
It’s the perfect mix of tropical relaxation and cultural immersion.
What to Expect at the Festival
Local Artisans & Exhibits - Over 50 Belizean artists showcase paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and crafts. You’ll find ocean scenes, jungle wildlife, Mayan-inspired art, and pieces that reflect the country’s multicultural identity.
Live Painting & Street Art - Watch as murals and live paintings come to life during the event. Many artists demonstrate their process — from canvas to finished masterpiece — right on the beach.
Music All Weekend - The soundtrack of Placencia comes alive: reggae, punta, soca, calypso, and Caribbean jazz performed by Belize’s top local musicians.
Food, Drinks & Beach Vibes - Try lobster tacos, BBQ skewers, fresh ceviche, or homemade tamales while sipping an icy rum punch or local Belikin beer.
Authentic Belizean Souvenirs - Support local artisans and bring home a one-of-a-kind keepsake — handmade jewelry, wood carvings, and woven bags make perfect reminders of your trip.
When & Where It Happens
Dates: Annually, typically in February or March (check local listings for exact weekend)
Location: Along the Placencia Sidewalk and beachfront, Placencia Village, Stann Creek District, Southern Belize
Admission: Free for all visitors
💡 Travel Tip: The festival happens in the middle of Placencia Village — an easy walk from many local resorts, restaurants, and shops. It’s best enjoyed on foot, so book accommodation within walking distance of the Sidewalk.
Stay Close to the Festival
Each year, the Placencia Art & Music Festival attracts visitors from all over Belize and abroad. Accommodations fill quickly — which is why booking early is essential.
For the perfect location, stay at Ocean Breeze Beach Resort, a boutique, adults-only resort located right in Placencia Village, just steps from the festival.
Why Guests Choose Ocean Breeze During the Festival:
Prime beachfront location — walk directly to the festival
Luxury suites, studios, and cabanas with sea views
Swim-up tiki bar, pool, and private pier
Complimentary bicycles, kayaks, and snorkel gear
Friendly, personalized service from local staff
After a day exploring art and music, unwind at our poolside bar, enjoy a sunset drink, and relax to the rhythm of the waves.
Beyond the Festival – Explore Placencia
If you’re visiting for the Art Festival, stay a few extra days to explore all the beauty Placencia has to offer. Here are some of our guests’ favorite activities:
Monkey River Tour – Spot howler monkeys, manatees, and crocodiles in the wild.
Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary – Hike jungle trails and waterfalls in the world’s first jaguar preserve.
Sunset Cruise on the Placencia Lagoon – Perfect for couples and photographers.
Relaxation on the Beach – Enjoy peaceful mornings and star-filled nights right at Ocean Breeze.
Placencia combines art, nature, and culture like nowhere else in Belize — and this festival is the perfect excuse to experience it all. Also check out Placencia Lobsterfest in July!
💡 Insider Tips for Visiting the Placencia Art Festival
Book Early: Hotels fill up fast — many guests return year after year.
Bring Cash: Most vendors prefer Belize dollars (BZD).
Stay Hydrated: The Caribbean sun is strong — carry water and sunscreen.
Go Early: The Sidewalk gets busy by midday, especially on Saturday.
Engage with Artists: Belizeans love sharing their stories — it’s part of the experience.
FAQs About the Placencia Art & Music Festival
When does the festival happen? Once a year, usually in February or March (exact dates vary).
Is there an entry fee? No — the festival is free and open to all.
Where does it take place? Along the Placencia Sidewalk, the beach, and nearby venues in Placencia Village.
Is it family-friendly? Absolutely! There’s something for everyone — art, food, and music for all ages.
Where should I stay? Ocean Breeze Beach Resort — right on the beachfront and within walking distance of everything.
Experience the Art of Belizean Living
The Placencia Art & Music Festival isn’t just an event — it’s a celebration of everything that makes Belize special: its creativity, warmth, and Caribbean soul.
You’ll meet artists who paint with passion, musicians who play from the heart, and locals who welcome you like family.
It’s the kind of weekend that stays with you — long after the music fades and the art is packed away.
So plan your visit, book your stay early, and discover the perfect blend of art, music, and ocean breeze in Placencia, Belize.
🎨 Book your stay today at Ocean Breeze Beach Resort — your front-row seat to Belize’s most colorful festival.
Book your stay at Ocean Breeze Beach Resort — where the festival, the beach, and paradise meet.
About the Author
Craig Densham is the owner of Ocean Breeze Beach Resort, a boutique seaside resort in Placencia, Belize. With years of local experience and a passion for hospitality, Craig loves helping guests discover the best of Belize — from hidden beaches to authentic local cuisine. Follow Ocean Breeze Beach Resort on Facebook and Instagram for travel inspiration.
