Garifuna Settlement Day

November 19, Wednesday

Garifuna Settlement Day is an important cultural holiday, celebrated annually on November 19, primarily in Belize. It commemorates the arrival of the Garifuna people on the coast of Belize in 1802 and symbolizes the preservation of their unique history, spirituality, and cultural identity. The holiday blends African, Caribbean, and Arawak traditions and serves as a reminder of the resilience and rich heritage of the Garifuna people.

Historical significance
The Garifuna people were formed through the mixing of indigenous Caribbean inhabitants and Africans who ended up on the islands due to shipwrecks or escaping slavery. After conflicts and deportations in the late 18th century, the Garifuna settled in Central America, including Honduras, Nicaragua, Guatemala, and Belize. Their arrival in Belize became one of the most significant events in their history and laid the foundation for the holiday.

Celebration traditions

* Reenactment of the historical arrival of the Garifuna on boats — a colorful performance in which participants in traditional attire arrive on the shore to drum rhythms
* Ceremonial marches and street parades in Belizean cities
* Performance of traditional music — particularly genres such as parranda and punta, accompanied by drums, maracas, and singing
* Dances, including the famous punta, an important element of cultural expression
* Rituals dedicated to the memory of ancestors, emphasizing the Garifuna people's spiritual connection to their history
* Food festivals featuring traditional dishes such as hudut (fish in coconut sauce with plantains) and darasa (banana dish)

Cultural significance
The holiday serves as a means of preserving the language, music, dances, and life practices of the Garifuna people. It emphasizes the importance of cultural resilience, passing traditions to younger generations, and respecting one’s roots. Thanks to Garifuna efforts in cultural preservation, UNESCO has recognized their language, music, and dances as intangible cultural heritage of humanity.

Modern perception
Today, Garifuna Settlement Day is celebrated not only in Belize but also in Garifuna diasporas across other Central American countries. For many in the region, it is one of the brightest holidays of the year, bringing together people of all ages. Schools, cultural centers, and public spaces host educational programs, concerts, and exhibitions aimed at promoting Garifuna culture and its role in regional history.

Garifuna Settlement Day in other years

2021 November 19, Friday
2022 November 19, Saturday
2023 November 19, Sunday
2024 November 19, Tuesday
2026 November 19, Thursday