John Canoe Dance Contest
The John Canoe (also known as The Habinahan Wanaragua Jankunu Festival) is one of Belize's best-kept secrets, stunning, colorful, and evocative of the country's culture. The event has its origins in Africa, as well as Belize's history of slavery during its time as a British colony.
The John Canoe dance is an exotic exhibition of male domination on the dance floor that combines music, dancing, mime, and significant social symbolism. Male dancers and musicians on African drums are only allowed to participate in the Jankunu dance. Female vocalists are permitted, although their involvement is limited. Traditionally, the dance is held on the slave off days of Christmas Eve and New Year's Day.
Date: December
