If you take a look around you on your trip to Belize, you’ll see a variety of different ethnic groups. In fact, you’ll see Chinese, Kriol, Garifuna, Lebanese, Mayan, and East Indian individuals as well as those who are Mestizo, Mennonite, and European. Each of these individuals help to create the different cultures of Belize.
The Most Common Cultures of Belize
The people in Belize represent cultures from different parts of the world. You’ll find that most Belizeans come from a background of Mestizo, Kriol, Mayan or Garifuna ancestry. That’s not to say that these individuals are 100% made up of any single ethnicity. Large numbers of individuals from this country have some level of ancestry from one of these four groups.
Mestizo
Approximately 52.9% of Belizeans have a Mestizo background, which is a blending of Spanish and Mayan ancestry. However, not all of these individuals currently living in Belize are native to Belize. Many Mestizos have emigrated from other central American countries.
This community is strongly dedicated to their ancestors and their roots, with traditions coming from both sides of the community. They enjoy foods such as escabeche, tortillas, tamales, cochinnita pibil, and more, which come from their Mayan and Spanish heritage.
Those within this community are primarily Catholic Christians, following Spanish religious traditions.
Garifuna
Approximately 6.1% of Belizeans are of Garifuna descent. The Garifuna culture is one of the most unique and vibrant cultures in Belize. The Garifuna people descended from West and Central African, Carib, and Arawak peoples, who were brought to the Caribbean region as slaves during the 17th and 18th centuries. They have a rich and diverse culture, which includes a unique language, music, dance, and cuisine.
The Garifuna language is recognized by UNESCO as a “Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.” The language is still spoken by many Garifuna people as a symbol of their identity and cultural heritage. The traditional Garifuna drumming and dance styles have been passed down from generation to generation and are performed at various festivals throughout the year.
Kriol
Approximately 25.9% of Belizeans have a Kriol background, including those who are in part descended from Africans but who are not a part of the Garifuna. These individuals were once one of the highest representations within Belize, and one of the most prominent of the different cultures of Belize. In fact, in the 1980’s approximately Kriols accounted for 60% of the population. However, many have chosen to emigrate out of Belize and other cultures have emigrated in.
Kriols are possibly the most well-known of the Belizean cultures. Kriol individuals have created the Kriol language, which is one of the official languages of Belize. They have also brought about much of the iconic foods, including rice & beans, plantains, coleslaw, and more.
Maya
Approximately 11.3% of Belizeans have a Mayan background specifically (not counting those who would also be classified as Mestizo). Maya, contrary to what you may have heard, are very much still alive and well, and represented within the world. And they are a very strong and proud people.
Maya, are descended from the Kechi, Yucatec, or Mopan cultures. They often stick to their roots and the ways that their ancestors lived in many ways. Some aspects have changed (such as blood sacrifices). But shamans, strong spirituality, and a deep dedication to the Earth appear to be hardwired into their DNA.
Many live in communities without outside governance and away from modern technology and education. It’s important to note that there are Maya who live in more modern society and have welcomed the changing world openly.
What Does Culture Mean in Belize?
Now, culture doesn’t necessarily mean just the background of the individuals or their ancestry. It also means the different customs and traditions of the people. Food, spiritual and religious beliefs, and customs are a large part of what culture means to the people of Belize.
Cultures of Belize and Food
Food is an important aspect of any culture, no matter where in the world you go. But in Belize, food is a major part of what makes up each of the different cultures. Food is also what brings Belizeans together to create something truly unique. Most people that know anything about Belize food, know that Stew Chicken with Rice & Beans in the staple meal. But there is a whole lot more to Belize Cuisine. Here are just a few of the unique Belizean dishes:
Pork Pibil (aka Conchita Pibil) is a most delicious Maya dish. For more information about cooking Pibil check out the photo & blog article by “BelizeSean”
Hudut is a Garifuna fish dish (also called Fish Serre) that is made with coconut milk, plantains, okra, and plenty of seasonings. Check out this blog article about Garifuna Food, including Hudut, written by Charlotte Tweed for the ‘Escape Artist’ website.
Boil Up is a uniquely Kriol dish. To learn more, check out this article on MyBeautifulBelize, written by Mary Gonzalez.
Escabeche, a Mestizo dish, is one of Jeff’s favorites! As with any recipe, Escabeche is a little different depending on the cook. But here’s a good general recipe, from Hot Mama’s Belize Hot sauce.
There are many, many more popular Belizean dishes, like tamales, ceviche, panades, chimole, salbutes, fry jacks, and so much more. And these cultural dishes are sure to make you want to come back and try even more.
But even these are only a few of the top dishes from different cultures of Belize. You’ll find more information in this additional blog article on Belizean Food.
Cultures of Belize and Religion
The predominant religion in Belize is Roman Catholic, however you’ll also find a strong representation of Protestants and shamanism from several of the different ethnic groups. These traditional spiritual beliefs are also influenced strongly by the Christian religions within the community and as a result a hybrid form has been established in some parts of the country.
Cultures of Belize and Languages
English is the official language of Belize, but there are plenty of other languages that you will find here including Kriol, Spanish, and Mayan. Not to mention more colloquial languages from different regions and even German, Chinese, Arabic, and Lebanese as a result of immigrants within the country.
If you’re looking at the different cultures of Belize, you certainly won’t be able to miss it in the language representation.
IN SUMMARY
Throughout the country, you will find many different representations of different cultures of Belize. And you will certainly find each of these four ethnic groups and more.
The truth is that Belize encompasses a range of different cultures. And each of those cultures helps to make Belize exactly what it is, a beautiful and unique place to visit or to live. There is so much to see, do and explore here, whether you choose to immerse yourself in one of the predominant cultures, or take the time to explore what they each have to offer. So don’t miss out on how the different cultures of Belize influence the land, the people, the food, and so much more.
To Learn More about the Cultures of Belize . . . . .
Explore the additional Blog Articles below and our Main Blog Page
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