Benque Fiesta 2024: A Weekend of Music, Dance, and Community Spirit

Benque Fiesta’s Flor de la Feria Rosa Sophia Barillas – Photo Credit: Sophia Barillas/Facebook

By Rubén Morales Iglesias: Belize’s westernmost town of Benque Viejo del Carmen is abuzz with excitement as the annual Benque Fiesta, in honour of Patron Saint The Virgin of Mount Carmel, is set for this coming weekend. With a rich history dating back to 1967, this annual event brings together locals, visitors, and neighboring communities for a celebration like no other.

After Rosa Sophia Barillas was selected as Flor de la Feria recently, Benque is now ready for its 57^th Fiesta.

International Marimba Concert at Cancha Marshalleck

The Benque Fiesta begins on Thursday with an international marimba concert at the Cancha Marshalleck featuring performances by two outstanding groups: Guatemala’s Rafael Landívar University Marimba Ensemble, who will showcase the vibrant rhythms and melodies of Guatemalan, and Benque’s very own, Los Hijos del West Marimba Ensemble, representing local talent. Los Hijos del West promise to infuse Belizean flair into the evening which starts at 7:30 pm.

The marimba concert will be followed by a dance with DJ Estevan and Black River Mobile Disco.

Entrance to Thursday’s activities is free of cost.

Friday, July 12: Inauguration and Dance Extravaganza

Friday night marks the official inauguration of the fiesta. After the formalities, the Cancha Marshalleck dance floor will come alive with DJ Blu3 and DJ Estevan spinning the latest grooves from 9:00 pm to 4:00 am for an entrance fee of $15.00.

Saturday, July 13: Dance All Night

The main night, Saturday, promises non-stop entertainment as Guatemalan La Raza Orchestra and Belizean Super Furia Balong with Taprick, DJ Blue, and DJ Estevan take center stage at Cancha Marshalleck. Entrance Fee: $40

Sunday, July 14: More Music, More Fun

The fiesta winds up on Sunday with another dance extravaganza. La Raza and Super Furia return, accompanied by DJ Blue. Gather your friends and family for a memorable evening of music, laughter, and community spirit. Entrance Fee: $40

International Rodeo: Thrilling Action at Amin Hegar Stadium

For adrenaline seekers, the Amin Hegar Stadium in the Santa Cruz area hosts an international rodeo show on both Saturday and Sunday. Witness daring horse and bull riders in a pulsating show.

Fun and Food

Beyond the music and dance, the Benque Fiesta offers delightful attractions plus mouthwatering treats such as tamales, barbecue, and rice and beans.

The Benque Fiesta is not only the biggest fiesta in Belize but also draws visitors from the neighbouring Guatemalan department of Peten.

The annual Benque Fiesta affords townsfolk and visitors alike an opportunity to meet old friends and make new memories in the festive atmosphere while allowing them to immerse themselves in the culture and experience the warmth of Benque Viejo del Carmen.

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