“They tried to bury us, but they didn’t know we were seeds.” – Mexican Proverb

Commemorating 228 Years of Garifuna Presence in Central America

Every April 12, Garifuna communities in Honduras honor the arrival of their ancestors to Roatan in 1797. This year marks 228 years since the Garifuna were forcibly exiled from Saint Vincent and brought to Central America. While history calls it exile, the reality was an attempted genocide. The Garifuna were abandoned on the small island of Baliceaux under dire conditions—no clean water, infertile land, and no medical attention. Over half of the captives perished before the survivors were finally transported to Roatan.

Punta Gorda Festival: A Celebration of Resilience

In Punta Gorda, an annual festival celebrates the strength and endurance of the Garifuna people. The event begins with a reenactment of their arrival—a boat procession along the coastline, accompanied by a march through the streets. A formal program follows on the beach, featuring speeches by community leaders and officials. Throughout the day, attendees enjoy cultural presentations, and as night falls, the celebration continues at the community center with music and dancing until sunrise.

Special Event Sponsored by the Garifuna Cultural Center

This year, the Garifuna Cultural Center will host a panel discussion from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM CST, featuring three distinguished Garifuna men:

Bruce Rhys – A Garifuna American who, through ancestry DNA, has reconnected with Garifuna communities worldwide. He has led groups from the U.S. to Saint Vincent, playing a vital role in the cultural reconnection movement over the past four years.

Owen Baptiste – A Saint Vincent native from the Garifuna community of Sandy Bay. For over a decade, Owen has actively worked to reestablish ties between the Garifuna and their ancestral homeland.

Emilio Thomas – A musician and member of the Belizean band The Garifuna Collective. Through music, Emilio shares the Garifuna story globally, preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of his ancestors.

* Note: We are in the process of relocating the center, therefore, this event will take place at Flamingo Beach in Punta Gorda (the old location of the Garifuna Cultural Center)

Tips for Visiting Punta Gorda on April 12

If you plan to attend the festivities, here are some essential tips:

• Wear comfortable shoes – You may need to walk from your parking spot and explore the community, which takes about 30 minutes at a moderate pace.

• Prepare for the outdoors – Bring sunscreen, water, and mosquito repellent, especially if you’re sensitive to mosquito bites.

• Plan for nightlife – If you’re staying for the evening party, consider hiring a driver for a safe return, as road conditions can be challenging due to ongoing construction.

• Expect traffic delays – The main road from First Bight (past Parrot Tree) to Juticalpa is under construction, causing heavy traffic and sections of unpaved road.

• Capture the moment – Bring your camera and extra batteries to document the vibrant celebrations.

Join us in Punta Gorda on April 12 as we honor the past, celebrate the present, and continue the legacy of the Garifuna people!

If you are unable to join the festivities this year and would like to start planning for 2026, please fill out the form below because the Garifuna Cultural Center is planning a group trip to Roatan in April 2026 for people interested in the Garifuna Settlement Day Festival.