.svg)
On March 9, Belize celebrates National Heroes and Benefactors Day – a day dedicated to honoring the brave individuals who have made significant contributions to the country's history and development. This holiday was first observed in 2008, but its roots can be traced back to the early 19th century when Belizeans fought against colonial rule and injustice. From national heroes like Philip Goldson and George Price to unsung local figures who have made a positive impact on their communities, this day is a reminder of the strength, resilience, and spirit of the people of Belize. Let's take this opportunity to celebrate these inspiring individuals and their legacies!
<div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>1797</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>Birth of George Cadle Price</div><div class='timeline-text'>George Cadle Price, the principal national hero of Belize and the "Father of the Nation", was born on January 15, 1919.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>1981</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>Independence of Belize</div><div class='timeline-text'>Price led Belize to independence from the United Kingdom on September 21, 1981.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>1991</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>Inception of National Heroes Day</div><div class='timeline-text'>National Heroes Day was first celebrated in 1991 to honor the birthday of George Cadle Price.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>2008</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>National Heroes Day Becomes National Heroes and Benefactors Day</div><div class='timeline-text'>The name of the holiday was changed to recognize not only national heroes but also other individuals who have positively impacted Belize.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>2011</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>George Cadle Price's Passing</div><div class='timeline-text'>This day has taken an added importance since the death of George Cadle Price on September 19, 2011. He is remembered for leading Belize towards independence.</div></div></div>
<div id='' class='facts-item'><div id='' class='facts-header'><h3 id='' class='facts-number'>1</h3></div><div id='' class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 id='' class='facts-title'>Honor your local heroes and benefactors</h3><p id='' class='facts-text'>Research and learn about the heroes and benefactors in your community who have made a positive impact. Visit their statues or monuments, or attend a ceremony dedicated to them to show your appreciation and gratitude.</p></div></div><div id='' class='facts-item'><div id='' class='facts-header'><h3 id='' class='facts-number'>2</h3></div><div id='' class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 id='' class='facts-title'>Volunteer at a local charity</h3><p id='' class='facts-text'>Spend the day giving back to your community by volunteering at a local charity that supports causes that were important to the heroes and benefactors of Belize. This is a great way to honor their legacy and make a positive impact in the present.</p></div></div><div id='' class='facts-item'><div id='' class='facts-header'><h3 id='' class='facts-number'>3</h3></div><div id='' class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 id='' class='facts-title'>Organize a fundraising event</h3><p id='' class='facts-text'>Gather friends and family together to organize a fundraising event for a cause that was important to the heroes and benefactors of Belize. This is a great way to celebrate their contributions and continue their legacy of helping others.</p></div></div><div id='' class='facts-item'><div id='' class='facts-header'><h3 id='' class='facts-number'>4</h3></div><div id='' class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 id='' class='facts-title'>Visit historical sites and museums</h3><p id='' class='facts-text'>Take a trip to historical sites and museums in Belize that honor and preserve the stories of the heroes and benefactors. This is a great way to learn more about their lives and the impact they had on the country.</p></div></div><div id='' class='facts-item'><div id='' class='facts-header'><h3 id='' class='facts-number'>5</h3></div><div id='' class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 id='' class='facts-title'>Organize a community celebration</h3><p id='' class='facts-text'>Get your community together for a celebration in honor of National Heroes and Benefactors Day. This can include cultural performances, food, and activities that celebrate the diversity and contributions of the heroes and benefactors of Belize.</p></div></div>
<div id='' class='whywelove-item'><div id='' class='whywelove-letter-cont'><div class='whywelove-letter'>A</div></div><div id='why-we-love-main-cont'><h3 id='' class='whywelove-title'>Honoring those who have contributed to the country's independence and development</h3><p id='' class='whywelove-text'>National Heroes and Benefactors Day is a time for Belizeans to reflect on the sacrifices that were made by individuals who fought for their country's freedom and progress. It serves as a reminder of the bravery and determination of these heroes and benefactors.</p></div></div><div id='' class='whywelove-item'><div id='' class='whywelove-letter-cont'><div class='whywelove-letter'>B</div></div><div id='why-we-love-main-cont'><h3 id='' class='whywelove-title'>Preserving national identity and culture</h3><p id='' class='whywelove-text'>By celebrating National Heroes and Benefactors Day, Belizeans are reaffirming their national pride and unity. It allows them to honor their country's history and traditions, keeping them alive for future generations to learn from and appreciate.</p></div></div><div id='' class='whywelove-item'><div id='' class='whywelove-letter-cont'><div class='whywelove-letter'>C</div></div><div id='why-we-love-main-cont'><h3 id='' class='whywelove-title'>Recognizing contemporary local heroes and role models</h3><p id='' class='whywelove-text'>In addition to honoring historical heroes, National Heroes and Benefactors Day also celebrates modern-day Belizean role models who have made significant contributions to their communities or nation. This inspires others to follow in their footsteps and make a positive impact on society.</p></div></div>
<div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-number-wrapper'><p class='facts-number'>1</p></div><div class='facts-core-content'><h3 class='facts-title'>George Cadle Price - An Icon of Peaceful Resistance</h3><p class='facts-content'>Price, Belize’s founding father, did not resort to violence in his quest for independence. His peaceful resistance set a course for the country’s liberation from a century-old colonial rule, earning him respect and adoration among Belizeans.</p></div></div><div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-number-wrapper'><p class='facts-number'>2</p></div><div class='facts-core-content'><h3 class='facts-title'>Unsung Heroes are Celebrated, Too</h3><p class='facts-content'>National Heroes and Benefactors Day is not just about nationally recognized figures. Local heroes, even those whose stories remain untold on a national level, are honored and celebrated by their communities for their outstanding contributions.</p></div></div><div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-number-wrapper'><p class='facts-number'>3</p></div><div class='facts-core-content'><h3 class='facts-title'>The Baron Bliss Harbour Regatta</h3><p class='facts-content'>Baron Bliss, a benefactor for Belize, has a regatta named in his honour that takes place during the celebrations of National Heroes and Benefactors Day. Baron Bliss left a significant portion of his wealth to Belize, making him an honored benefactor of the country.</p></div></div><div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-number-wrapper'><p class='facts-number'>4</p></div><div class='facts-core-content'><h3 class='facts-title'>A Day of Cultural Experiences</h3><p class='facts-content'>The celebration is a tapestry of individual community celebrations that showcase the diverse cultures of Belize. From traditional meals to dances, locals and visitors get a chance to experience an assortment of cultural and historical facets on this day.</p></div></div><div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-number-wrapper'><p class='facts-number'>5</p></div><div class='facts-core-content'><h3 class='facts-title'>Belize's Recognition of Women Heroes</h3><p class='facts-content'>Women heroes such as Cleopatra White and Gwendolyn Lizarraga are recognized for their contributions to Belizean society. These brave women fought for the rights of others and played crucial roles in shaping Belize's present-day identity.</p></div></div>
National Heroes and Benefactors Day is celebrated on March 9 every year. In 2024 National Heroes and Benefactors Day will occur on a Saturday.
2023
Mar 9
Thursday
2024
Mar 9
Saturday
2025
Mar 9
Sunday
2026
Mar 9
Monday
2027
Mar 9
Tuesday
.svg){kind=small}
.svg){kind=small}
