Events
Events in Toledo
Toledo is home to a vibrant calendar of cultural events and festivals that celebrate the district’s rich diversity. From the rhythmic beats of the Battle of the Drums to the indulgent flavors of the Chocolate Festival of Belize, each event offers a unique glimpse into the traditions, music, food, and heritage of the people who call Toledo home. Whether you’re experiencing the Yellow Ginger Festival’s celebration of East Indian culture or joining in the excitement of local fairs and sporting events, there’s always something happening in Toledo to bring communities together and welcome visitors into the heart of Belizean culture.
Chocolate Festival 2025
May 3rd, 16th, 17th, & 18th
The Chocolate Festival of Belize is an annual celebration of Toledo’s rich culture and its deep-rooted connection to chocolate. Designed to highlight the district’s cacao heritage while fostering sustainable tourism, this festival brings together local farmers, chocolatiers, and artisans for an unforgettable experience.
Each year, the festival offers a variety of exciting events. The 2025 edition kicks off in Bella Vista on May 3rd. On May 16th, the Chocolate Symposium showcases industry insights during the day, while the Wine & Chocolate Gala provides an evening of indulgence. The festivities continue with the Celebrate Chocolate Street Fete on May 17th and conclude with the Cacao Football Cup on May 18th.
Yellow Ginger Festival
August 15th & 16th
The Yellow Ginger Festival is an annual summer celebration of East Indian heritage in Toledo, honoring the cultural traditions and culinary contributions of the East Indian community. At the heart of the festival is turmeric—known locally as yellow ginger—a spice brought to Belize by East Indian ancestors, which flourished in the region’s fertile soils and became a key ingredient in signature dishes like tacari and cohune cabbage. Traditionally, yellow ginger was so abundant that it was freely shared among families and neighbors, symbolizing generosity and community spirit.
This vibrant festival offers visitors an immersive cultural experience, featuring dahl roti-making competitions, cohune cabbage dicing contests, energetic performances by East Indian dance groups, and traditional music. Of course, no celebration would be complete without the rich flavors of East Indian cuisine, with plenty of delicious food available to enjoy. The Yellow Ginger Festival is a unique opportunity to experience the traditions, flavors, and lively spirit of Toledo’s East Indian community.
Battle of the Drums 2025 and Belize Garifuna Musical Festival
November 15th
The Battle of the Drums Competition and Show is an electrifying annual event that celebrates the vibrant drumming traditions of the Garifuna people. Held in Punta Gorda on the Saturday before Garifuna Settlement Day (November 19th), this highly anticipated competition brings together drumming groups from Belize, Guatemala, and Honduras to showcase their musical artistry across five distinct categories of Garifuna drumming. Since its inception in 2006, the event has grown into an international spectacle, drawing enthusiastic crowds from near and far.
Beyond being a thrilling cultural showcase, the Battle of the Drums serves as a major tourist attraction and a driving force for economic activity in Punta Gorda. The event has expanded to include a Garifuna Song Competition, which encourages local musicians to preserve and celebrate their rich musical heritage. Proceeds from the initiative are dedicated to cultural retrieval efforts, ensuring that Garifuna traditions continue to thrive for generations to come.
Cultural Immersions
Toledo offers authentic cultural immersion experiences, where visitors can engage with Maya, Garifuna, and East Indian communities, learning traditional crafts, cuisine, music, and daily life firsthand.
Orang Utan Show
Riding With Elephant
Photo With Animal
Stories from Toledo
Delve into the rich tapestry of Toledo’s people and history through captivating stories that celebrate its culture, heritage, and traditions.
A PG Man’s Day in Shipyard
On a routine trip from Toledo to Shipyard for vehicle maintenance, a surprise radiator leak
The White Bucket
An unassuming plastic bucket on James Bus Line in Belize - once a vital tool
Jungle View
Jungle View is a family-friendly bar, restaurant, and adventure retreat in Toledo, Belize, offering delicious...
Explore Toledo
From ancient Maya sites to breathtaking waterfalls, Toledo is a land of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. Discover charming villages, lush rainforests, and vibrant traditions that make southern Belize truly unique. Whether you’re exploring caves, tasting local cuisine, or immersing yourself in rich cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone.