Belize Independence

September is a slow tourist month in Belize but the country celebrations are many. For nearly a full month, there are parties, pomp and circumstance with a sense of patriotism and pride.

Belizeans take the art of celebrating quite seriously and the lineup of events surrounding Belize's Independence Day did not disappoint the party goers.

The slogan for the month is "Belize in You, Belize In Me, Land of the Free!" The 1st of September officially kicks off the month long celebrations on the Island of St. George's Caye. September 5th, 6th and 7th hosts the "Giving Back through Music" Belikin Bash in Belize City. The two prominent days of the month are September 10th, celebrating the battle of St. George's Caye and the biggest Belize holiday of the year is Independence day on September 21st.

I went to the fireworks show held at midnight over the sea on September 20th. The fireworks display was amazing - lasting well over a half an hour - lighting up the sky with a spectacular show. The display brought out hundreds of local citizens many of whom wept with pride at the celebrant meaning of their Independence for the past 32 years.