There’s just something about Lobster Fest in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye that hits different. It’s not just a food festival, it’s a whole vibe. A celebration full of flavor, music, energy, and pure Belizean joy, with our beloved spiny lobster taking center stage.
From the moment I stepped into the Block Party this past Saturday, I could feel it, this wasn’t your average slow-season weekend. I don’t know where all those people came from, but the crowd was massive. There were tourists from every direction, Belizeans from the mainland, and of course, plenty of us locals soaking it all in. The turnout alone was a clear sign that Lobster Fest brought a much-needed spike to the island’s usual off-season lull.
The Lobster Fest Vibe
The vibe…contagious, from families dancing to the music, to foodies hopping from booth to booth, everyone was there for the same reason, to celebrate. The energy reminded me of Costa Maya Festival crowds, with the entire Saca Chispas field buzzing from end to end.
DJ Debbie kept the beats rolling all night long, and the Panerrifix Steel Drum Band delivered that perfect Caribbean groove that made it impossible not to dance. After weeks of talking about sargassum and the dip in tourism, this felt like the reset button we all needed. Lobster Fest didn’t just lift spirits, it got the whole island buzzing again.
The organizers deserve a big shout out. They pulled off something incredible, colorful booths, lobster-themed everything, and a lineup of chefs and mixologists who went all out. Every booth had something special, and it was obvious that a lot of thought and love went into each dish and display.
The grills were sizzling at Pirates Not So Secret Beach Bar and Grill and Anglers Seafood House
My Judge’s Seat Experience
This year, I had the honor of sitting behind the judges’ table once again, alongside Mayor Wally Nuñez and Miss San Pedro Alexa Acosta. It’s one of my favorite seats in the house and also one of the most delicious.
We tasted 14 incredible lobster dishes and 13 signature cocktails, each one creative in its own way. By the end, we were happily stuffed with lobster prepared every which way:
Lobster sushi rolls
Ravioli and creamy lobster curry
Bacon-wrapped lobster
Lobster Nori tacos
Lobster hot dogs (yes, really!)
Pesto lobster
Lobster “mojitos”
Lobster Mac and cheese balls
Lobster Ducunu
Lobster Pizza
Fry jack Lobster Tacos
And even a Japanese-style batayaki version
Every bite told a different story, and the chefs really brought their A-game this year. It was impressive, playful, and downright delicious.
Lobster Fest 2025 reminded me why I love this island so much. Even in the middle of what we call “slow season,” we know how to turn things up and celebrate what makes Belize unique, our culture, our people, and yes, our lobster. If you missed it this year, make sure to mark your calendar for next summer. Because trust me, Lobster Fest in San Pedro isn’t just an event… it’s a whole vibe.
Winners of the Evening
Best Drink Competitio
3rd – Jyoto Sushi Bar
2nd – Alaia
1st – Happy Island
Best Dish Competition
3rd – Jyoto Sushi Bar
2nd – Estel’s Dine by the Sea
1st – Mambo/Mata Chica
Best Booth
Jyoto Sushi Bar
Lobster Sushi Roll gave Jyoto a 3rd place win in the Best Dish Competition
Alaia’s Martinis were just perfect; they won 2nd for the Best Drink
Lobster Rolls by The Mayan at Lina Point and the 1st prize winner Mata Chica/Mambo with their Lobster Ravioli
