Easter weekend in San Ignacio is a time of vibrant traditions, community spirit, and festive celebrations. From breathtaking sawdust street art to the excitement of the annual Holy Saturday Cross Country Cycling Classic and the lively San Ignacio Easter Fair, there’s something for everyone to experience.
On Good Friday, the streets of San Ignacio and nearby Benque Viejo transform into a colorful tapestry of intricate sawdust art. This tradition, carried out by local artists and volunteers, involves sifting, dyeing, and carefully placing sawdust into elaborate stencil designs. Beginning at dawn, the process takes nearly 10 hours, resulting in breathtaking depictions of religious imagery, floral patterns, and cultural motifs. Throughout the day, volunteers gently water the artwork to preserve it, ensuring it remains a striking sight before its eventual erasure.
The Holy Saturday Cross Country Cycling Classic is one of Belize’s most anticipated sporting events. Marking its 97th anniversary in 2025, this grueling 140-mile race starts and finishes in Belize City, but one of its most thrilling moments unfolds in San Ignacio. As cyclists race through town and cross the iconic metal bridge, locals and visitors alike gather to cheer them on. The energy is electric as families from surrounding villages come to witness the race, making it a truly unmissable event.
Once the race excitement settles, the San Ignacio Easter Fair kicks into high gear. Beginning Friday night and running through Easter Monday, the fair is a hub of music, food, and entertainment.
On Saturday afternoon, after the bike race, food vendors set up booths selling Belizean favorites like BBQ, rice and beans, tamales, Chamoyadas, and chips with dip—perfect for a post-race lunch. As evening falls, the fairgrounds come alive with a bigger crowd enjoying live music, DJ performances, and a festive atmosphere. With rides, games, and drinks flowing, the Easter Fair is a beloved tradition for both locals and visitors.
Easter weekend in San Ignacio is a perfect blend of culture, sport, and celebration. Whether you’re admiring intricate sawdust street art, cheering on cyclists, or enjoying the fair’s lively atmosphere, there’s no better place to experience the holiday weekend.
Will you be spending Easter in San Ignacio? Let us know your favorite part of the festivities!
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