Cayo Scoop! The Ecology of Cayo Culture

Belize is the focus of this year's Cultural Exchange at the New Orleans Jazz Fest, which starts tomorrow.  The Garifuna Collective, TR Shine, Sweet Pain with Chico Ramos and Supa G, and the Wageirale Drummers are some of the Belizean performers.  Hope they have a great time sharing their wonderful music.

"This year, festival goers will have the opportunity to hear music, see demonstrations and learn about the history and customs of the small Caribbean country of about 300,000, which includes people of Maya, Mestizo, Creole, East Indian, Garifuna, Chinese, Lebanese, Mennonite and Caribbean descent. The country was under British rule until 1981. The national language is English."

The University of Belize had their Cultural Day today, and Belize Natural Energy was there to participate and get some pictures.  The had displays from the Chinese, Maya, Mennonites, Mestizo, Creole, and Garifuna, with abundant amounts of food.  

One of the food photographers that helped with The Flavors of Belize has a great article on the process, along with a couple of cool videos.  There's even a recipe for a hot pepper and onion salsa.  If you leave a comment, you might win a copy of the cookbook.

"There’s so many wonderful recipes to dive into within the book’s pages, and if you’ve never experienced Belizean food then you’re in for a treat. It’s a fantastic blend of distinct cultures, sometimes moving in one direction before coming back to another.  It’s Mayan, it’s Carribeean, It’s Asian, it’s Creole, and it’s all delicious.  In fact, several recipes from the book have become standards at our house."

Lets all welcome back the Belize National Dance Company!

"The Belize Dance Company returned to country on Wednesday, September 12, 2012, after a two-month tour of France and Spain.  The Company represented Belize at the prestigious international folkloric Festival du Sud 2012 along with 13 other countries.  This Festival brought together over 1,200 musicians and dancers from each continent to share their cultural music and dances.  The dance company represented the music and dance of the Maya, Creole and Garifuna cultures of Belize in 31 different villages, towns and municipalities."