What to Expect at the 10th Annual Chocolate Festival of Belize

Designed to raise awareness of the Toledo District as a responsible tourism destination, the annual Chocolate Festival of Belize has become one of the most anticipated events in the country. Today, the festival promotes the growing cacao industry in Belize, while exposing the public to advancements in chocolate making.

This 3 day event which will be held from May 20th to 22nd this year, attracts hundreds of visitors from both home and abroad to the charming seaport town of Punta Gorda. Travelers visit by land, sea and air, to indulge in delicious chocolate infused beverages such as wine and beer, listen to lively cultural music, examine the magnificent Belizean and Mayan artwork and satisfy their taste buds with delicious Belizean cuisine.

Here’s a short breakdown of what to expect on each day:

Day 1: Wine and Chocolate evening on May 20th at 7pm at The Lodge at Big Falls

The Wine and Chocolate evening is the signature event of the Chocolate Festival of Belize, offering visitors live music this year by the Garifuna Collective, fine wine, Belizean chocolate, and Belikin’s specially brewed Chocolate Stout. Indulge yourself with the latest creations from Belizean boutique chocolate makers – Xoco, Che’il, MOHO, Cotton Tree Chocolate, and Ix Cacao – and feast on delectable hors d’ouevres.

Photos Courtesy: Danny Hun Photography

Day 2: The Taste of Toledo street fair on May 21st held on Front Street

The pedestrian-only street fair is held on Front Street in Punta Gorda town and features cultural displays and areas showcasing Toledo’s five main ethnic groups: Kriol, Maya, Garifuna, Mestizo and East Indian. Each area displays art, food and music from their culture; it’s like going from a Maya town to a Garifuna town in just a few steps. Expect musical performances, barbecued food, chocolate making, jewellery making, kayak trips, chocolate farm trips, various games and competitions.

Day 3: Grand Finale on May 22nd at the Julian Cho Technical High School Grounds

The festival finale always takes place on the Sunday and features live performances throughout the day from Mayan harp groups and Garifuna drummers, as well as dances by the Mayan groups of the Toledo District. There will be a range of drinks made from cacao combined with corn, pepper or other ingredients and food stalls that offer ethnic Mayan dishes.