If the idea of Christmas has you picturing snowflakes, frosty windows, and bundling up in layers of scarves and mittens, it’s time to swap out the winter wonderland for a Caribbean Christmas in toasty, tropical Belize. It’s the most wonderful time of the year and instead of traipsing through snow-covered fields, you can be trekking through lush jungle or shuffling down a sandy lane. The sun-dappled sea sparkling as brightly as tinsel is sure to send your spirit soaring, and the season is full of holly jolly activity and merry excitement. Here is a glimpse of holiday happenings to have you feeling festive on the Placencia Peninsula this December.
Holiday Boat Parade and Night Market
Santa arrives in Placencia the only way a Caribbean Claus would: not by sleigh but by boat! Join the festivities down near the municipal pier at the Village Council’s Christmas Night Market on Saturday, December 7th. A new community tradition, the Night Market is a merry, open-air gathering of merchants and musicians. You probably won’t find chestnuts roasting on an open fire, but you are almost guaranteed to encounter some unique crafts, delicious barbeque, and cold cocktails on offer. The yearly holiday boat parade, which begins at Buba Wuba’s Bar and travels the lagoon, ends at the market and Santa disembarks his boat to greet and take photos with his fans on the dock.
Marathon Merriment
Break out those sneakers and get ready to run in paradise. The End-of-the-World Marathon is an iconic event that attracts serious athletes and casual competitors from near and far, and it takes place on Sunday, December 8th this year. The marathon and half-marathon course run the length of the picturesque Placencia Peninsula and affords participants scenic views of the sea on one side and the Maya Mountains looming over the lagoon to the other. Themed water stations manned by resident volunteers keep the racers’ spirits and hydration up while they pound their way along the mostly flat course. The race got its name from the (thankfully) failed doomsday prediction based off the ancient Mayan calendar artifact recovered at Cuello, as well as in honor of author Aldous Huxley, who wrote in 1934 about Belize ‘If the world had any ends, British Honduras would certainly be one of them.’ Even if you’re not a runner, join as a spectator! Cheer on the trotters, take part in the post-race party and awards ceremony, and soak in the excitement and energy of Marathon Weekend.
Mistletoe Ball
A magical evening of elegance and holiday cheer, the annual Mistletoe Ball is a beloved tradition bringing residents and visitors together for a night of revelry. Meet me under the mistletoe at Umaya Resort in your holiday finery on Saturday, December 14th. A night of gourmet dining, live music by Gilharry 7 Band, dancing under the stars, and maybe even a visit from Santa Claus. Perfect for couples or groups looking for a glamorous evening out and an authentic, one-of-a-kind Placencia experience. The annual Mistletoe Ball is a longstanding and cherished tradition on the peninsula and the highlight of the holiday season.
Singing on the Sidewalk
Placencia Village’s original main street was its famous sidewalk along the seaside and today this important artery is the lifeblood of the community. The most jovial portion of the sidewalk is the Tipsy Strip where carolers gather for Christmas themed karaoke and imbibe in a cup of cheer or two. Special holiday-themed cocktails and seasonal specialties such as Belikin’s Sorrel Stout or Tipsy Tuna’s Rum Popo Colada will have you feeling the Christmas spirit.
This holiday season, trade in the snow for sunshine, and the hustle and bustle for the laid-back paradise of Placencia. Belize offers a tropical Christmas experience that mixes festive cheer with an irresistible Caribbean vibe.
Check availability at Los Porticos Villas for your holiday stay.
