Belize St. George’s Caye Day: September 10
St. George’s Caye Day is a Public Holiday in Belize.
September is a festive time of year in Belize. People all over the country gather at public venues to enjoy entertaining and educational performances in honor of two very important national holidays in the month of September. These are the Battle of St. George’s Caye Day- September 10th and Independence Day- September 21st. It is tradition in Belize for celebration to begin at the beginning of September and continue through Independence Day, extending festivities to almost three weeks. For most Belizeans it is also a time of reflection and appreciation of the struggles of Belize people as a nation.
Belize St. George’s Caye Day History
The Battle of St. George’s Caye was a short military engagement that lasted from 3 September to 10, 1798, fought off the coast of what is now Belize. From September 3 to 5, the Spaniards tried to force their way through Montego Caye shoal, blocked by the defenders. The military commanders, Moss and Barrow, differed on where to put their resources for the next phase of the fight: Barrow thought they would go to the land phase, while Moss decided on defending St. George’s Caye. Moss arrived in time to stop the Spaniards, setting the stage for September 10.
On 10 September, the Spaniards and British lined up off St. George’s Caye. Prior to 1798 the Spaniards attempted to invade Belize at least six times, and only once were they successful when in 1779 Spanish ships surprised the inhabitants of St. George’s Caye, burned down the buildings and took away 140 prisoners. These were imprisoned in the dungeons of Havana and not released until 1782.The Spaniards stormed through the channel, and at 1:30 engaged the British in a two-hour fight which ended in defeat for the confused Spaniards.
Moss reported no one killed and the side in good spirits. Barrow was dispatched and arrived in time to see the end of the battle and prevent the slave men from boarding the enemy. The Spaniards were in full retreat by September 13, and Barrow agreed to send vessels to further push the Spaniards back. But conditions in Belize did not improve much after the battle, though the threat of Spanish attacks decreased significantly. The event is celebrated every September 10 in Belize as St. George’s Caye Day or National Day.
Belize St. George’s Caye Day Customs and Activities
On September 10th, Belize celebrates the Battle of St. George’s Caye. This is the time of the year when Belize dresses itself with its patriotic colors: blue, white and red. On this holiday, San Pedro Town rejoices in its patriotism and takes the opportunity to coronate its Miss San Pedro. After the official ceremonies ends, the San Pedro High School marching band beat its drums signaling the commencement of the parade. The parade takes off as it makes its way through the main streets of town. Throughout the day, countless activities are held in honor of the special day, including a tug-of-war competition. Throughout the day, there are foods and drinks galore. The Caliente tent keeps all beach and party goers in the mood. Delicious barbecue, ceviches and drinks are served to everyone’s delight.
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