The Garifuna culture holds a rich and vibrant place in Belize’s heritage, and their contributions to the development of our nation have been both significant and lasting. As part of our ongoing commitment to honoring Belize’s diverse cultures, Builders Hardware proudly joined forces with the Garifuna Council to celebrate Garifuna Settlement Day with a full day of cultural festivities at our compound.

The event was a colorful and lively affair, with our entire staff embracing the spirit of the occasion by dressing in the iconic colors of the Garifuna flag: yellow, black, and white. It was a wonderful sight to see the Builders Hardware family united in celebration, reflecting our respect for and admiration of Garifuna culture.

To make the event even more special, we extended a warm invitation to schools in the surrounding community to join us for a day filled with cultural activities. Students, along with the residents of Belmopan, were treated to an immersive experience where they could learn, appreciate, and enjoy the traditions of the Garifuna people.

The day’s festivities included LIVE music performances, where the rhythmic sounds of traditional Garifuna drummers and dancers filled the air. The drumming, coupled with the graceful movements of the dancers, captivated the crowd and brought the rich history of the Garifuna to life right before their eyes.

The highlight of the cultural showcase was none other than the legendary Mr. Paul Nabor, a world-renowned Paranda musician. At over 90 years old, Mr. Nabor remains an active and vibrant performer, and his soulful voice and mastery of the guitar filled the stage with warmth and passion. His Paranda music—a blend of African, Latin, and indigenous rhythms—left a lasting impression on all in attendance, proving that age is no barrier to talent and creativity.

In addition to the entertainment, we were delighted to offer a taste of traditional Garifuna cuisine to everyone at the event. The ladies from the Garifuna Council graciously prepared and served up a variety of delicious dishes, including Hudut (a savory coconut fish stew with mashed plantains), Darasa (a Garifuna version of tamales made with green bananas), Boil Up (a beloved Belizean dish made with boiled ground foods and fish), cassava pudding, and the crowd favorite, Sahau (a refreshing, slightly spicy beverage made from cassava starch). The flavors were authentic and showcased the deep culinary traditions of the Garifuna people, making the event a feast not only for the eyes and ears but for the taste buds as well.

Builders Hardware also added to the excitement with fun giveaways throughout the day, further enhancing the festive atmosphere. The combination of cultural performances, music, food, and prizes made for a truly unforgettable experience.

This celebration of Garifuna Settlement Day was not only a joyful occasion but also a meaningful reminder of the diverse cultural fabric that makes Belize so unique. We are incredibly proud to have played a part in honoring the Garifuna culture, and we look forward to continuing our tradition of celebrating and supporting the rich heritage of Belize.