"Independent, Strong and Free, Belize fi all ah We!"

Message from the September Celebrations Committee Chairman, Hon. Manuel Heredia, Minister of Tourism & Civil Aviation

The National September Celebrations is a time of great festivity. Parades and carnival are an opportunity to showcase the talent of many Belizeans as they participate in the myriad of contests and shows that are held annually across the nation leading up to the glorious 21st day of September, the Anniversary of our Independence Day.

For most Belizeans it is also a time of reflection and appreciation of the struggles of our people as a nation. We recall the struggle of the Baymen in the Battle between the Spaniards and the English at St. George’s Caye in 1798.

Belizeans strive to balance the uniqueness of our history and culture in the Central American region with the shared historical colonial inheritance of the Caribbean states. We also celebrate a nation that has embraced new citizenry from every corner of the world welcoming them to our shores to participate in our democracy and to enrich our culture as they blend their own with ours harmoniously.

We in Belize have so much to be so very proud of. The magnificence of our Belize Barrier Reef, the majesty of our ancient Mayan civilizations, the variety of our wildlife and the diverse flora and fauna and the natural beauty of our country calls so many to visit with us and experience our young vibrant nation, blossoming with possibilities. We are blessed with natural resources that when managed with great care, respect and equity, will be beneficial to all and will sustain us for generations to come.

It is the commitment of the Government of Belize to safeguard our nation and it’s resources for our people and to ensure the welfare and prosperity for all.

I embrace this opportunity to welcome all those who are visiting our shores at this very festive time and to welcome home all our family and friends. I wish all Belizeans a Happy Independence Day and congratulate all on the Anniversary of the Battle of St. George’s Caye Day.

Con Cariño,

Manuel Heredia Jr.
Minister of Tourism and Civil Aviation
Chairman, September Celebrations Committee

About September Celebrations

September is a festive time of year in Belize. People all over the country gather at public venues to enjoy entertaining and educational performances in honor of two very important national holidays in the month of September. These are the Battle of St. George's Caye Day- September 10th and Independence Day- September 21st. It is tradition in Belize for celebration to begin at the beginning of September and continue through Independence Day, extending festivities to almost three weeks.

Traditional events include the Queen of the Bay Pageant, Carnival Parade, St. George's Caye Day Citizens Parade, Expo, Official Independence Day Celebrations, and live musical concerts.

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