Battle of the Drums

The Battle of the Drums is a Garifuna Cultural Retrieval and Preservation Initiative out of Punta Gorda, Belize which pursues its work under three main programs namely, the Garifuna Language Retrieval Program, the Garifuna drumming, singing, and dance program, and the Garifuna community support program. The Initiative has been in existence since November 2006 and has won the recognition and support of many individuals and entities, both locally and internationally. To finance its programs, the Initiative organizes an annual Garifuna drumming competition and show as well as a Garifuna Music Festival.




These two events are typically charged events that see many paying local and foreign visitors. The proceeds from these two events are used to promote and finance the programs. With the advent of Covid-19, our main fundraiser had to be postponed. However, we are intent on keeping the event alive and foremost in the minds of its erstwhile audience. Therefore, this year we have organized a Virtual Garifuna drumming Show, as well as a Garifuna Musical Festival. The event will take the form of a pre-recorded show which will be streamed through social media as well as national TV. Because there are costs to be borne to undertake this initiative, we are hopeful that we will be able to cover the cost through this Go fund me mechanism.