Belize's National Heroes And Benefactors Day

March 9 is a holiday in Belize because it is National Heroes and Benefactors Day, formerly known as Baron Bliss Day. The day celebrates Baron Henry Edward Ernest Victor Bliss, an Englishman who left his fortune to Belize (then British Honduras) in his will. Baron Bliss was a wealthy Englishman who came to Belize to enjoy fishing and sailing and left his fortune to help in the construction of schools, libraries and other important institutions.

Baron Bliss Day

Belize's National Heroes and Benefactors Day, originally known as Baron Bliss Day, is a public holiday dedicated to the memory of Baron Henry Edward Ernest Victor Bliss, an Englishman who left a large sum of money to the country in his will.

Born in 1869, Baron Bliss became paralysed from the waist down at the age of 42 but continued to lead an active life. By the end of the First World War, he had amassed a fortune, the origins of which remain unclear. After spending time in the Bahamas, Trinidad, and Jamaica, he settled in Belize (then British Honduras) in 1926, attracted by his love of fishing and sailing.

Upon his death on 9 March 1926, Baron Bliss bequeathed most of his wealth to the country, with specific instructions on how to spend the money. His generous legacy helped fund the construction of schools, libraries, and other important institutions in Belize.

The country commemorates Baron Bliss with a national holiday on the anniversary of his death. The celebrations include a wreath-laying ceremony at his grave in Bliss Park, as well as a regatta and various water sports activities, honouring his love of fishing and sailing. The holiday provides an opportunity for Belizeans to celebrate the impact of this eccentric Englishman, who left a lasting legacy of philanthropy and support for the development of their nation.

National Heroes and Benefactors Day

Baron Bliss was born in 1869 in England and became paralysed from the waist down at the age of 42. He spent time in the Bahamas, Trinidad and Jamaica before settling in British Honduras (now Belize) in 1926, where he enjoyed fishing and sailing. He died on 9 March 1926 and was buried in Belize City. In his will, he left most of his fortune in a trust fund for the citizens of British Honduras, with specific instructions on how the money should be spent.

Baron Bliss' legacy

Baron Bliss, born Henry Edward Ernest Victor Bliss, was a British-born traveller and engineer who lived from 1869 to 1926. He acquired a large fortune of almost one million pounds, the origins of which remain unknown. In 1911, at the age of 42, Baron Bliss became paralysed and used a wheelchair for the rest of his life. This prompted him to purchase a yacht, the Sea King, and spend five years fishing in the Bahamas. He then sailed to Trinidad, where he fell ill with food poisoning. His health improved enough for him to sail to Belize, where he spent several weeks fishing.

On March 9, 1926, shortly before his 57th birthday, Baron Bliss's health deteriorated, and doctors informed him that he did not have long left to live. He decided to will his fortune to the nation of Belize and passed away soon after aboard his yacht. In his will, he requested to be buried by the sea near an obelisk or lighthouse. This wish was granted, and a 50-foot concrete lighthouse, known as the Baron Bliss Lighthouse, was built by the harbour of Belize City.

A trust was established to manage the funds from Baron Bliss's estate, which amounted to nearly two million Belize dollars. The trust has funded numerous projects in Belize, including the Bliss Institute, a significant cultural centre, and the Bliss School of Nursing. Baron Bliss also stipulated in his will that 100 Pounds Sterling from his fortune be used annually for a regatta.

March 9, or the closest Monday, is now celebrated in Belize as Baron Bliss Day, or National Heroes and Benefactors Day. The day is marked with parties, boat races, and fishing events, honouring the generous legacy of Baron Bliss. The Baron Bliss Lighthouse stands as a memorial to a man who cherished the sea and showed great compassion for the people of Belize, who welcomed him warmly during his final days.

Belize's National Heroes and Benefactors

Baron Bliss was born in 1869 in England and became paralysed from the waist down at the age of 42. By the end of the First World War, he had amassed a substantial fortune, the origins of which remain unclear. He spent time in the Bahamas, Trinidad, and Jamaica before settling in British Honduras, where he spent the rest of his life indulging in his passions for fishing and sailing.

Upon his death on 9 March 1926, Baron Bliss bequeathed most of his wealth to a trust fund for the benefit of the citizens of British Honduras. He provided specific instructions on how the money should be spent, including on the construction of schools and libraries. In recognition of his generosity, the Belizean government designated a day of sailing and fishing in his honour, as outlined in his will. The anniversary of his death was soon declared a national public holiday, originally called Baron Bliss Day.

In 2008, the name of the holiday was changed to National Heroes and Benefactors Day to commemorate not only Baron Bliss but also other Belizean heroes and benefactors. The day is celebrated with various activities, mostly water sports, including a wreath-laying ceremony at Baron Bliss' grave in Bliss Park and a regatta.

Annual festivities

Belize's annual festivities are a reflection of the country's diverse cultural influences, including Mayan, Catholic, and Caribbean traditions. While some celebrations are unique to Belize, others, like Easter and Christmas, are observed worldwide. Here is a glimpse into the vibrant festivities that occur throughout the year:

Baron Bliss Day/National Heroes and Benefactors Day (March 9):

This holiday commemorates Baron Henry Edward Ernest Victor Bliss, an Englishman who left a substantial fortune to Belize in his will. Baron Bliss, an avid sports fishing enthusiast, had a particular fondness for Belize's Caribbean coast. The day is celebrated with various activities, primarily water sports, including sailing and fishing, as designated in his will. The festivities also include a wreath-laying ceremony at Baron Bliss' grave in Bliss Park and a regatta.

Easter:

Easter is one of the biggest and most colourful holidays in Belize, with celebrations lasting from Good Friday to Easter Monday. The week leading up to Easter is filled with religious processions, family gatherings, and solemn observances. Belize's cycling community eagerly anticipates the annual Holy Saturday Cross Country Classic race, followed by fairs and dances. Easter Sunday is marked by church services and family reunions.

Labour Day (May 1):

Labour Day in Belize is a celebration of the working class and their fight for fair wages. The day includes a formal address by the minister of labour, along with family gatherings and picnics.

Commonwealth Day (May 24):

Commonwealth Day celebrates the culture and people of Belize. It features youth activities, horse races, and events that showcase Belizean culture.

St. George's Caye Day (September 10):

This holiday commemorates the victory of British settlers over the Spanish navy in 1798, ensuring that Belize would never become a Spanish colony. Belize City marks this occasion with music, culinary delights, and festive drinking.

Independence Day (September 21):

Independence Day is a joyous celebration of Belize's independence from Great Britain in 1981. The festivities include flag-raising ceremonies, parades, street parties, music, dancing, and an array of Belizean cuisine.

Garifuna Settlement Day (November 19):

This day commemorates the arrival of the Garifuna people in Belize. The Garifuna, a group with African and Carib roots, were forced by the British to relocate from St. Vincent Island. The community celebrates with vibrant dancing, live re-enactments, and parades. The Garifuna's musical tradition includes energetic drumming, creating an atmosphere of celebration and cultural pride.

Christmas and Boxing Day (December 25-26):

Christmas in Belize is a magical time filled with tree lighting, Christmas mass, holiday dinners, and dancing. Boxing Day, a traditional British celebration, is also observed with music, parades, and festivities.

Frequently asked questions