Although August and September fall during the “low” season when nearby destinations compete for tourists, this period of the year is one of the very best times for visitors to enjoy Belize vacations. In August, Belize is usually cooler than most places in the United States, offering travelers a perfect mix of sunny days and pleasantly warm temperatures. August is known by locals as the “little dry” season because it experiences far less precipitation than during the earlier summer months.
August is also when the big International Costa Maya Festival is held on the island of Ambergris Caye. For an entire week, the town of San Pedro is transformed into one huge party that features live music from top regional acts, a popular beauty contest, parades, games, street dancing, and all the seafood that visitors care to eat.
If you’re planning on doing some Belize travel this August or September, expect daytime highs of around 86F (30C) and nighttime lows around 77F (25C).
In September, precipitation levels do pick up, but many visitors feel it is well worth it to carry an umbrella around for the chance to enjoy all of the incredible celebrations that occur throughout the month. Nicknamed “Patriotic Month,” September is a month-long celebration of Belizean history and when two of the most important national holidays occur.
September 10 is The Battle of St. George’s Caye Day. While a mouthful to pronounce, this holiday is near and dear to every Belizean’s heart because it commemorates the historic 1798 battle off the coast of the island of St. George’s Caye in which a tiny, ragtag British fleet defeated a superior Spanish force. As a result of this battle, Belize became the only British colony in the region and the reason why English is, today, the official language of Belize.
The celebrations continue non-stop throughout September with fairs, parades, and village festivals until September 21, Independence Day. On that date in 1981, Belize gained full independence from Great Britain. These patriotic holidays are celebrated by decorating everything sight in red, white, and blue (the national colors), parades, street dancing, song, games, music, and plenty of delicious food.
If you’re interested in visiting Belize during this period, be sure to stay at Caves Branch Jungle Lodge. This Belize jungle lodge is located in the center of the country and offers a number of Belize vacation packages for every taste and budget.