For expats and digital nomads who have chosen the vibrant town of Dangriga as their base, exploring the local markets is a must-do activity. Dangriga, known as the cultural capital of Belize, offers a variety of markets that showcase the rich diversity and creativity of the local Garifuna and Belizean communities. From bustling outdoor markets selling fresh produce to quaint shops with handcrafted goods, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the best markets in Dangriga to immerse yourself in the local culture and find unique items.
Dangriga Central Market
Location: Hummingbird Highway, Dangriga
Type of Market: Local Produce and Goods Market
Open: Daily, 6 AM – 6 PM
The Dangriga Central Market is the heartbeat of the town, where locals come to sell and buy fresh fruits, vegetables, and a variety of Belizean staples. It’s a great place to experience the local way of life, interact with friendly vendors, and find some of the freshest ingredients for your culinary experiments.
We Recommend: Trying the ripe plantains or the freshly caught fish, which are often used in traditional Garifuna dishes like Hudut.
St. Vincent Street Artisan Market
Location: St. Vincent Street, Dangriga
Type of Market: Craft and Artisan Market
Open: Weekdays, 9 AM – 5 PM
St. Vincent Street Artisan Market is a treasure trove for those looking for authentic Garifuna crafts. This market is a hub for local artisans to display their work, including intricate wood carvings, handwoven baskets, and colorful textiles. It’s the perfect place to find a unique souvenir or gift.
We Recommend: The handcrafted drums, which are not only musical instruments but also pieces of art, reflecting the Garifuna heritage.
Riverside Market
Location: Near the North Stann Creek River, Dangriga
Type of Market: Outdoor Market
Open: Saturdays, 5 AM – 2 PM
Riverside Market is a weekly event that brings together farmers and vendors from the surrounding areas. It’s an excellent opportunity to sample local produce, including exotic fruits and vegetables that you might not find elsewhere. The market also features food stalls where you can taste traditional Belizean dishes.
We Recommend: Sampling the salbutes and garnaches, which are popular Belizean snacks that you can find at the food stalls.
Maya Center Mayan Craft Market
Location: Maya Center Village, a short drive from Dangriga
Type of Market: Cultural Craft Market
Open: Daily, 8 AM – 5 PM
Although not located directly in Dangriga, the Maya Center Mayan Craft Market is worth the trip for those interested in Mayan culture. This market offers a variety of handmade crafts, including pottery, jewelry, and textiles, all created by local Mayan artisans.
We Recommend: The beautifully woven hammocks, perfect for relaxing in the tropical climate of Belize.
Gulisi Garifuna Museum Gift Shop
Location: Gulisi Garifuna Museum, Dangriga
Type of Market: Museum Gift Shop
Open: Monday to Friday, 8 AM – 4 PM; Saturday, 8 AM – 1 PM
While not a traditional market, the gift shop at the Gulisi Garifuna Museum offers a selection of authentic Garifuna items. It’s an excellent place for expats and digital nomads to learn about the Garifuna culture and purchase items that support the local community.
We Recommend: The traditional Garifuna clothing and accessories, which are both colorful and meaningful, representing an important part of the local heritage.
Dangriga Farmers Market
Location: Commerce Street, Dangriga
Type of Market: Farmers Market
Open: Fridays, 5 AM – 3 PM
The Dangriga Farmers Market is a smaller, more intimate gathering of local producers offering a variety of organic and locally grown products. It’s a great place to support local agriculture and find some of the best natural ingredients for your kitchen.
We Recommend: The local honey, which is not only delicious but also comes in a variety of flavors depending on the seasonal flowers.
Peninsula Plaza
Location: A short drive to Placencia Peninsula
Type of Market: Shopping Plaza
Open: Daily, 9 AM – 9 PM
For a more modern shopping experience, Peninsula Plaza offers a range of stores selling everything from clothing to electronics. While it’s a bit of a journey from Dangriga, it’s a good option for those looking for a wider variety of goods in a single location.
We Recommend: Visiting the boutique shops for unique clothing and accessories that blend Belizean motifs with contemporary fashion.
Whether you’re looking for fresh food, unique crafts, or just a taste of the local culture, Dangriga’s markets are sure to enrich your experience as an expat or digital nomad in Belize. Each market offers a glimpse into the daily life and traditions of this diverse and welcoming community.
