National Heroes and Benefactor Day in Belize
Belize marks National Heroes and Benefactor Day around March 9, the date associated with Baron Bliss’s legacy. It is listed as a public and bank holiday, and the observed weekday can shift when March 9 falls on a Sunday.[1][2][4]
A Belizean holiday with a benefactor’s legacy
The March 9 date connects the holiday to Henry Edward Ernest Victor Bliss, the 4th Baron Bliss. Before his death on March 9, 1926, he bequeathed most of his fortune to Belize. The Belize Tourism Board describes him as a philanthropist and national hero.[4]
The holiday’s name also recognizes heroes and benefactors more broadly. A National Institute of Culture and History exhibition about George Price’s speeches opened in Punta Gorda on Heroes and Benefactors Day and later travelled to Dangriga, Belize City and Orange Walk.[3]
When it is observed
The holiday is associated with March 9. The government publishes public and bank holiday dates under the Holidays Act; in its 2025 notice, it set Monday, March 10, in lieu of Sunday, March 9. Check the official annual notice for the observed date, since it can differ from the calendar date.[1][2]
Commemorations and the regatta
A documented way Belize commemorates the day is through cultural and historical programming. The travelling George Price exhibition, which included speeches, photographs and personal items, opened in Punta Gorda on the holiday.[3]
Bliss’s will also provided one hundred pounds sterling for an annual regatta. The Belize Tourism Board reports that the regatta has been held in Belize City, with sailing clubs competing. This tradition links the holiday’s history to Bliss’s interest in sailing.[4]
Work, banks and practical planning
National Heroes and Benefactor Day is a public and bank holiday, and its calendar date is March 9. The observed date can change.[1][2]
A public holiday does not mean every worker is automatically off. Belize’s Labour Act says monthly or weekly paid workers must not have wages deducted for time not worked on a public holiday. It also sets holiday pay rates for some work performed on a scheduled workday, with statutory exceptions. Ask your employer about your own schedule and pay.[5]
Opening hours and service schedules vary by shop and transport operator. Check directly with them before making plans.
Frequently asked questions
When is National Heroes and Benefactor Day?
Is it a day off for workers?
Are banks and government offices open?
Are shops and public transport open?
Opening hours and service schedules vary by shop and transport operator. Check directly with them before travelling.
Sources and references
Sources used for National Heroes and Benefactor Day in Belize:
- Public and Bank Holidays 2025- Government of Belize Press Office
- Belize Public Service’s Onboarding Handbook- Ministry of the Public Service, Belize
- “Let Belize Live” Honors the Legacy of Rt. Hon. George Price- National Institute of Culture and History
- A Famous Tourist from 1926- Belize Tourism Board
- Labour Act, Chapter 297, Revised Edition 2020- Government of Belize, Ministry of Labour