Better Belize It! NYC Set for an Epic Belizean Fest

Belizeans, whether at home or abroad, are taking over this weekend to celebrate Belize pride, even in the face of bad weather. While locals will get to enjoy the annual carnival road march, Belizeans in New York City will see the return of the Belize Park Fest on September 7, 2024, at Industry City in Brooklyn’s Sunset Park. 

News 5 spoke with Duane Gutierrez, chairman of the NYC Belize Park Fest, and Dona Andrews, the fest’s secretary, to learn more about this year’s ‘one big Belizean Reunion’ in New York City. 

Gutierrez expressed his vision to bring back the festival so Belizeans can reconnect.  “It’s more so for the next generation of Belizeans that are here. To pretty much get to know their culture and heritage a lot more closer,” said Gutierrez. 

According to Gutierrez and Andrews, the festival offers a slice of home for Belizeans residing in and around NYC—an opportunity for Belizeans to enjoy Belizean food and music.

Andrews highlighted the festival’s dual purpose as both a celebration and a fundraiser. “It is a fundraiser. So once you come and you support us, you’re not supporting us personally, you’re a part of what we are about, our dream, and helping Belizeans. So you are a part of what our dream is about,” she said.

“We’re very excited that we’re going to be helping our Belizeans here and abroad in sports, education, whatever,” she added. 

The Belize Park Fest not only serves as a vibrant celebration of Belizean heritage but also as a meaningful way for the community to contribute to the next generation of Belizeans living abroad.