What a beautiful night yesterday! Standing by the sea, moon rising, watching and listening to five or was it six different steel bands – young and old – playing their hearts out together at the House of Culture in Belize City. I’m told last night was the largest crowd at this event in four years.

Everyone was enjoying the old school and Caribbean beats – from Kool & The Gang to soca tunes on steel pan - not to mention the stunning decor of reds and blues against the House of Culture’s majestic white.

The countdown to Belize’s 30th Independence has definitely begun… four more days to go till the 21st. Or actually, the 20th evening for the raising of the Flag and the fireworks.

Speaking of, I still need to get a flag – I could’ve used one yesterday to jump up with the others at the end of the show!

In the meantime, off I go to cover yet another September Celebrations event.

More images from Pan Yaad night coming soon.

Lebawit Lily Girma

Lily Girma is a published Travel writer, Photographer and Guidebook author who has lived and studied in Africa, Europe and the Americas. In 2008, she left behind a prestigious law career to follow her passion. Her work has appeared in various outlets, including CNN Travel and BBC Travel, and her photography commissioned by tourism boards. Her first edition of "MOON BELIZE" travel guidebook is due for publication this Fall 2013 (10th edition, Moon Handbooks by Avalon Travel/Perseus Books). Lily's work reflects a deep love for culture and adventure in all its forms.

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