CREOLES
As the largest ethnic group in the country, the Creoles make up about a third of the population of Belize. These people of Belize have descended from the slaves from Africa and the European settlers of the Colonial era as a result of their interracial unions and live chiefly in Belize City. ‘Creole’ is the main language spoken throughout Belize, although English is the official language.
MESTIZOS
Residing mainly in the three districts of Corozal, Cayo and Orange Walk, the Mestizos are the descendants of the early Spanish and Mayan settlers who immigrated to Belize in the middle of the nineteenth century. They speak Spanish as well as Creole.
MAYAS
Constituting the third Biggest ethnic group in Belize and divided into three diverse groups are the Mayas. They are believed to have immigrated to Belize in the 1880s to flee from the Caste Wars and the majority now occupies the southern districts of Stann Creek and Toledo. Their rich tradition has a place of pride among the Belize People.
GARIFUNA
The next biggest racial group, the Garifuna arrived in Belize in the latter part of eighteenth century. They originated from the slaves from Africa who mixed with the natives of a small Caribbean island called St. Vincent.
Having been exiled by the British to the Honduras, the Garifuna entered the southern shores of Belize in 1832 again and every year on 19 November, the locals celebrate Garifuna Settlement Day to commemorate this arrival. These people have a vibrant tradition of music, dance, arts and crafts.
ARABS , MENNONITES, EAST INDIANS and CHINESE
The rest of the population comprises the East Indians who are descendants of the labourers who were brought from India, the Arabs originally from Turkey, Syria, Lebanon and Palestine ,the Chinese, mainly engaged in businesses and last but not the least, the Mennonites who are a deeply religious and simple people and have maintained their distinct rural lifestyle.