The Placencia Peninsula was inhabited by the ancient Maya starting around 3,000 years ago with at least 14 known sites situated on the perimeter of the Placencia Lagoon. The name “Punta Placencia” or “Pleasant Point” was given by the Spanish, but the first permanent settlers of European origin were primarily English-speaking Puritans from Nova Scotia in Canada. In the half of the 19th century, the original Puritan settlement was later abandoned. Towards the end of the 19th century, however, the Garbutt family settled on the Placencia Peninsula. Later, a Portuguese family from Brazil relocated to Placencia followed by the Leslie family, originally from Roatan in Honduras, also moved to Placencia.
Throughout its entire modern history, Placencia has relied on fishing and other activities related to the sea and it wasn’t until the 1970s that electricity came to Placencia. Only in 1993 did Belize Electricity provide a consistent power supply from the mainland.
Today, Placencia has successfully managed to preserve its idyllic charm and traditional lifestyle. Placencia has emerged to become a leading eco-tourism area with residents from all walks of life in Belize as well as visitors from around the world. Placencia Village has gained global fame after being awarded a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records for the smallest main street, a lovely, four-foot wide pedestrian-only sidewalk framed by cafes, colorful murals, and boutique shops.
July: Placencia Lobsterfest – A mega beach party like no other in Belize, organized by the Plcencia BTIA and Placencia Village Council. Celebrate Placencia and its bounty of good food and people. Enjoy live musical performances, games and take a chance in the legendary Placencia Lobsterfest Raffle.
Celebrated annually . . . Visit Placencia and stay in or near the Village, the "The Island You Can Walk To" from Chabil Mar Villas Resort, to join in this celebratory event, which includes a fishing tournament.
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