Experience the Best Festivals, Culture, and Beach Life All Year Long in Placencia, Belize
- Craig Densham
- Dec 24, 2025
- 5 min read
Updated: 22 hours ago
There’s never a dull moment in Placencia, Belize. This vibrant seaside village blends laid-back Caribbean charm with an impressive calendar of annual events that celebrate art, culture, food, and community. Whether you’re visiting for the world-famous Lobsterfest, the Easter beach parties, or the Christmas boat parade, Placencia always offers something special.
Here’s a month-by-month look at the Placencia 2026 events calendar, curated by Ocean Breeze Beach Resort — your perfect home base on the beach.
January – A Peaceful Start to the Year
January is one of the most relaxing times to visit Placencia. The holidays are over, the weather is perfect, and the beaches are calm. It’s the ideal month for travelers seeking quiet mornings, warm sun, and the gentle rhythm of local life. You won’t find major festivals this month, but it’s a great time to enjoy snorkeling, island hopping, and sunset cocktails at Ocean Breeze Beach Resort.
Embrace the Tranquility
During January, take time to unwind. Enjoy leisurely strolls along the beach. Sip on refreshing drinks while soaking up the sun. This peaceful atmosphere is perfect for rejuvenation.
February – Placencia Sidewalk Arts and Music Festival
The Placencia Sidewalk Arts and Music Festival is one of the biggest cultural events in southern Belize. Held over a weekend in mid-February, it transforms the famous Placencia Sidewalk into a colorful outdoor gallery. Local artists, craftspeople, and musicians fill the village with creativity, music, and Belizean flavor.
It’s a fantastic time to explore local art, sample street food, and enjoy the friendly village vibe.
Tip: Ocean Breeze Beach Resort is located right along the main sidewalk — you can walk straight from your suite into the festival scene.
March – La Ruta Maya Belize River Challenge
Although it takes place inland, Placencia joins in the excitement of Belize’s famous La Ruta Maya canoe race, which runs from San Ignacio to Belize City. Beach bars often host watch parties where locals and visitors cheer on their favorite teams. It’s a great time to mingle with locals and experience Belizean camaraderie.
Celebrate the Spirit of Adventure
Join in the excitement! Feel the thrill as teams paddle through the waters. This event showcases the community spirit and love for adventure that defines Belize.
April – Easter Weekend on the Beach
Easter is one of Placencia’s liveliest weekends. Families and visitors gather on the beach for picnics, live music, and late-night parties under the stars. The whole village comes alive with food stalls, games, and celebrations. Because it’s one of the busiest weekends of the year, be sure to secure your room at Ocean Breeze Beach Resort well in advance.
Join the Festivities
Experience the joy of Easter in Placencia. Enjoy delicious local dishes, dance to live music, and make memories with friends and family. The vibrant atmosphere is contagious!
May – Lagoon Conservation and Eco-Kayak Day
May in Placencia tends to be peaceful, but it’s also when locals turn their attention to the environment. The annual Lagoon Conservation and Eco-Kayak Day invites visitors to join in protecting Placencia’s mangrove ecosystems. It’s a rewarding experience for travelers who care about sustainability and want to give back while enjoying nature.
Connect with Nature
Participate in eco-friendly activities. Kayak through the serene lagoons and learn about the importance of conservation. This experience allows you to appreciate the beauty of Belize while making a positive impact.
July – Placencia Lobsterfest and the Start of Lobster Season
When July arrives, Belize’s lobster season officially reopens, and the village throws its biggest party of the year: Placencia Lobsterfest. For three days, the beach transforms into a festival of music, dancing, and delicious seafood. Enjoy lobster prepared every way imaginable, local rum cocktails, and live performances. It’s the ultimate summer celebration and a must-do experience for anyone visiting Belize.
Stay close to the fun: Ocean Breeze Beach Resort is just a short walk from the main festival area.
Savor the Flavors of the Sea
Indulge in mouthwatering lobster dishes. From grilled to fried, there’s something for everyone. The lively atmosphere and delicious food create unforgettable memories.
August – Art and Culture Month
August is quieter in Placencia, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and local culture. You’ll find small art exhibitions, pop-up craft markets, and drumming workshops in nearby Seine Bight Village. It’s a good time to meet locals, learn about Garifuna traditions, and experience Belize at a slower pace.
Discover Local Artistry
Take the opportunity to explore local talent. Engage with artists and craftsmen. This month allows you to immerse yourself in the rich culture of Belize.
September – Independence Celebrations
September is Belize’s most patriotic month. The country celebrates both St. George’s Caye Day (September 10) and Independence Day (September 21). In Placencia, the celebrations include parades, fireworks, and street parties that stretch long into the night. The atmosphere is electric — and it’s an unforgettable time to be here.
Feel the National Pride
Join the festivities! Wave the Belizean flag and celebrate with locals. The vibrant parades and lively music create a sense of unity and joy.
October – Beach and Sea Festival
In October, Placencia celebrates its connection to the ocean with the Beach and Sea Festival. The event features seafood cook-offs, snorkeling excursions, family-friendly games, and environmental awareness activities. It’s ideal for ocean lovers who want to experience Placencia’s marine life and coastal spirit.
Dive into Ocean Adventures
Participate in exciting activities. Snorkel in crystal-clear waters and discover the vibrant marine life. This festival is perfect for those who love the ocean.
November – Garifuna Settlement Day
One of Belize’s most important cultural holidays, Garifuna Settlement Day honors the arrival of the Garifuna people to Belize. Head to nearby Seine Bight in the early morning to witness the dramatic reenactment of the Garifuna’s landing, followed by a day of drumming, dancing, and feasting. This is an authentic cultural experience you won’t want to miss.
Celebrate Cultural Heritage
Engage in traditional dances and enjoy delicious Garifuna cuisine. This day is a beautiful celebration of history and culture that connects you to the roots of Belize.
December – Christmas Boat Parade and New Year’s Eve Celebrations
Placencia closes the year with festive flair. The Christmas Boat Parade lights up the lagoon as decorated boats glide through the water, followed by beachfront parties and live music. Then, as the year ends, the village celebrates with fireworks and dancing on the sand. It’s the perfect way to welcome the new year — tropical style.
Ring in the New Year with Joy
Join the celebrations on the beach. Dance under the stars and enjoy the festive atmosphere. This is a magical way to end the year and start anew.
Plan Your 2026 Belize Vacation Around Placencia’s Best Events
No matter when you visit, Placencia offers a warm welcome, a vibrant community, and endless things to do. Whether you’re here for Lobsterfest, Easter, or simply to relax by the sea, you’ll find every month filled with charm and local color.
Stay at Ocean Breeze Beach Resort — a boutique beachfront escape just steps from Placencia’s top restaurants, bars, and event venues. Enjoy the perfect mix of comfort, convenience, and authentic Belizean hospitality.
Book your stay today and experience the best of Placencia in 2026.
More Local Guides
👉 Read our Ultimate Belize Travel Guide for everything you need to know before you visit Belize.
👉 For more local tips, check out our Placencia Village Belize Travel Guide — your key to exploring the best of southern Belize.
👉 How to Get to Placencia from Belize City Airport - you have three choices!
✨ Explore our guide on where to stay in Placencia to find the area and hotel style that fits your trip.
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.
