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Candles, flowers, photographs and traditional foods came together in Orange Walk this weekend as families gathered on Saturday in Orange Walk for the U Janal Pixano’ob Festival 2026. The festival celebrates Hanal Pixán, which means “Food for the Soul,” a Maya Mestizo tradition that honours the memory of loved ones who have passed away. For many families, it is a special time of reflection and remembrance, based on the belief that the spirits of the departed return to visit their families during this period. The celebration featured traditional altars, cultural displays, food and activities that allowed residents and visitors to experience a part of Belize’s heritage. The event was supported through the Belize Culture Fund, as part of efforts to preserve cultural traditions and encourage younger generations to learn about customs that have been passed down for many years. Prime Minister John Briceño attended the festival and spoke about the importance of keeping Belize’s traditions alive.
John Briceño, Prime Minister of Belize: “I think it’s important to start by congratulating the Mayan Northern Association of Belize along with the House of Culture, also Bishop Martin School, and all the people that are participating today. For too long, I think that we have been accused that we have not been putting in importance in the preservation of our culture. And people like Mrs. Cantun, Felicita Cantun, for many years have been constantly talking about that our culture is so beautiful and that we must do everything to preserve it. I remember as a small boy growing up my grandmother used to always support and celebrate Hanal Pixán. She would do it at the home, the altar, with the food, and the sweets, dulce de calabaza, you know, and all the handmade corn tortillas, all of that was being done. And then we would be praying the rosary and the different prayers and the different songs. And I can always remember that when we finished the prayers they were gonna eat, so it was a wonderful experience but had been dying slowly. Thanks to the efforts of these different groups, we started to see more and more people becoming more aware of this, there’s a special ceremony. It is a fusion of the Mayan culture/tradition and the Spaniards, Hispanic Catholic religion. The Mayans have always had this tradition of having close contact with the dead.”
For organisers and participants, the U Janal Pixano’ob Festival 2026 was more than a cultural event. It was a reminder of the connection between generations and the importance of remembering those who came before
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