Benque Fiesta 2024 in Belize

Benque Fiesta is a vibrant summer celebration, held annually at the beginning of July, in the town of Benque Viejo Del Carmen, on the border with Guatemala. The fiesta honors the patron saint of the town, Nuestra Senora de Monte Carmelo. Festivities typically last for about two weeks, culminating on the last day with a parade and fireworks. Benque Fiesta features carnival rides, soccer games, live music concerts, and DJ sets.

Flor de la Feria Pageant (June 29, 2024)

Flor de la Feria Beauty Pageant is one of the main highlights of the fair in Benque Viejo del Carmen. This year, it takes place at the end of June. From hundreds of competitors, six finalists are chosen to compete for the crown of Seniorita Flor de la Feria. Held since 1967, the pageant has a different theme each year, which showcases the beauty of the contestants. The event takes place at Cancha Marshalleck, with doors opening at 7 pm. Tickets for adults cost $10, while children's ticket costs $5. The coronation is followed by a grandiose dance party with DJ Estevan and DJ Saul.

Noche de la Cultura & Inauguración (July 11-13, 2024)

For two days during the Benque Fiesta, the city is filled to the brim with dancers and music performances, mainly by DJs and hip-hop artists. The lineup features DJ Estevan, DJ Blue. Admission to Noche de la Cultura on July 11th is free, while Inauguración concert on July 12th requires a $15 fee. The concert on July 13th costs $40 to attend and features Taprick as a guest artist. The festivities span from 9 pm until 4 am late into the night.

Other Attractions

Religious processions called “Las Aboradas" take place in Benque, starting in early July. Traditional foods such as small tamales and various pastries are served during church gatherings. Children and adults alike will have a chance to enjoy exciting amusement rides, carnival games, and the fair's signature rodeo, which keeps the spectators at the edge of their seats. Overall, be prepared to try lots of local foods and hear lots of marimba music during the fiesta, which draws visitors not just from the Cayo district of Belize but from neighboring Guatemala as well. On the last day of the festival, the celebration comes to a dazzling end with a magnificent fireworks display over Benque.

Location

Benque Viejo del Carmen is the westernmost town in Belize, located about 80 mi (130 km) from Belize City. It's situated 8 miles (13 km) from San Ignacio and is just 2,5 miles away from the Xunantunich Mayan Ruins.