For decades, Good Friday in Belize meant closed businesses, silent streets, and absolutely no alcohol sales. It was a day of religious observance, strict restrictions, and deep-rooted traditions. But in 2023, the law changed—for the first time in modern history, bars, restaurants, and stores were legally allowed to sell alcohol on Good Friday.
So, what does this mean? Has Good Friday in Belize lost its solemnity? Can you now have a beachside rum punch at noon? Let’s break down the law, the traditions, and how things have shifted in recent years.
1. The Law: Good Friday Is No Longer a ‘Dry Day’
Before 2023:
Good Friday was a mandatory “dry day.” The Intoxicating Liquor Licensing Act (Chapter 150) prohibited alcohol sales for 24 hours. Bars, nightclubs, and liquor stores were closed. Even supermarkets and restaurants were not allowed to display alcohol.
Limited exceptions existed. Only registered hotel guests could buy and consume alcohol inside their hotels, but locals and non-hotel guests were out of luck.
Enforcement was strict. Police patrolled businesses to ensure compliance. If you were caught selling alcohol on Good Friday, you could face fines or even lose your liquor license.
What Changed?
In late 2022, the Belizean government repealed the Good Friday alcohol ban through Statutory Instrument No. 175 of 2022. As of Easter 2023, businesses are legally allowed to sell alcohol on Good Friday under their standard license hours.
Shops and supermarkets can sell alcohol from 6 AM to 9 PM (normal shop license hours).
Bars and restaurants can serve alcohol from 9 AM to midnight (standard publican's special license).
Nightclubs can operate from 10 AM to 2 AM (Saturday morning), just like a regular Friday night.
Now, Good Friday is treated like any other Friday under liquor laws. No more full-day closures, no more hidden beer fridges, and no more scrambling to buy drinks the day before.
Does this mean Belizeans are partying on Good Friday?
Not exactly.
2. The Traditions: What Still Holds Strong
Good Friday is one of the most sacred days in Belize. It marks the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, and for many Belizeans, it is a day of quiet reflection, religious observance, and family time.
What People Still Observe:
Church Services & Religious Processions: Most churches hold morning and afternoon services, and some Catholic communities organize Stations of the Cross processions through the streets. These processions, featuring people carrying crosses and reenacting the Passion of Christ, are still widely respected.
No Meat, Only Fish: Many Belizeans continue the tradition of avoiding meat on Good Friday. Hot cross buns and fried fish remain the classic meal of the day.
Superstitions Live On: Some still believe the old tales—no swimming, or you’ll turn into a mermaid. Others hold that working on Good Friday brings bad luck.
What’s Changed in Practice:
More businesses are open. While many small shops and family-run businesses still close for the day, larger supermarkets, bars, and restaurants now stay open, especially in tourist areas.
Alcohol is legally available. You can now walk into a supermarket or bar and order a drink. However, out of respect for tradition, some businesses still choose not to serve alcohol until after church hours.
Tourist Areas Are More Active. In places like Placencia, San Pedro, and Caye Caulker, restaurants and bars are seeing more visitors enjoying Good Friday at the beach—something that was unheard of before the law changed.
3. Public Behavior: What You Can (and Can’t) Do on Good Friday
Even though the legal restrictions have eased, Good Friday is still not a “party day” in Belize.
What’s generally accepted:
✔️ Going to the beach (though some still believe swimming is bad luck).
✔️ Eating out at restaurants (many will be open, especially in tourist areas).
✔️ Buying and consuming alcohol (within regular business hours).
✔️ Attending church services or religious events.
✔️ Quiet family gatherings.
What’s still frowned upon:
❌ Loud music and parties. Belizean culture still treats Good Friday as a solemn day. If you blast music or host a loud event, expect complaints (and possibly a visit from the police).
❌ Public drunkenness. Just because alcohol is now allowed doesn’t mean people go overboard. The police still enforce laws against public disturbances.
❌ Disrupting religious processions. If you’re driving and come across a Good Friday procession, be patient. Disrespecting a religious event will not win you any friends in Belize.
4. The Future of Good Friday in Belize
With the Good Friday alcohol ban now history, Belize is shifting toward a more modern approach while still maintaining its cultural and religious roots.
Businesses are adapting. While some still close out of tradition, others are embracing the flexibility of the new law.
Tourist hotspots are seeing a shift. With bars and restaurants open, Good Friday is becoming more like a relaxed beach day in coastal areas.
Religious traditions remain strong. Church services and processions still define the day for many Belizeans.
For visitors, this means more options, but also an expectation of respect. Whether you're looking to attend a service, relax at the beach, or enjoy a quiet drink, Belize still honors Good Friday in a way that blends the past with the present.
Final Thoughts: What This Means for You
If you're visiting Belize for Good Friday, don’t expect wild parties, but do expect a peaceful, reflective atmosphere with the option to enjoy the day at your own pace.
If you’re a local business owner, you now have the flexibility to operate without fear of police shutdowns.
If you’re a traditionalist, don’t worry—the core religious and cultural observances of Good Friday are still very much alive.
The law may have changed, but the heart of Good Friday in Belize remains the same—a day of faith, family, and reflection. The difference? Now, you can reflect with a cold beer if you want to.