Cashew Fest celebrates local heritage and flavor in Crooked Tree

Posted: Friday, May 9, 2025. 10:33 am CST.

By Aaron Humes: For over 30 years, the vibrant village of Crooked Tree has transformed into a bustling hub of color, sound, and flavor as it hosts the highly anticipated annual Cashew Fest. Drawing visitors from across the region, this two-day festival highlights the versatile cashew nut in a multitude of mouthwatering forms, including cashew wine, cashew jelly, and even cashew cakes.

This year’s festivities kick off on Friday evening with a lively pageant, setting the stage for the main events that unfold over the weekend. Festival-goers flock to the village grounds to indulge in an array of delicacies crafted from the beloved cashew nut. From roasted cashews and cashew cookies to unique creations like stewed cashew and cashew jams, the offerings celebrate the nut in ways that showcase local ingenuity.

Adding to the festive atmosphere, live music performances include Youth Connection Band, Continental Cat, TLC Band, DJ Dalla, Harlem Youths, DJ Bigz, DJ Shy, DJ Tuku and DJ X, with the main dance on Saturday night featuring DJ Dalla, Harlem Youths and TLC Band.

Engaging games and displays of local art, make it a family-friendly event that captivates attendees of all ages. The breathtaking views of the Crooked Tree Lagoon from the causeway leading into the village provided a stunning backdrop for the festivities.

Historically, Crooked Tree is one of Belize’s earliest settled locations, with roots tracing back to the Maya civilization and beyond. While the village once relied on timber logging from the nearby Belize River, it has since embraced the cashew tree as its primary source of sustenance and economic opportunity.

Each year, the community prepares for the festival by gathering and processing the ripe cashew fruits, which typically fall from the trees between March and June. The intricate process involves laying the fruits out in the sun, cracking the hard shells, and carefully roasting the seeds to create the delectable nuts enjoyed at the festival.

Originally known as the Belize District Agriculture Show, Cashew Fest has evolved since its relocation to Crooked Tree in 1983, showcasing not only the agricultural wealth of the region but also its rich cultural tapestry.

Attendees will leave with full bellies and fond memories, making plans to return next year for another celebration of the beloved cashew and the tight-knit community that champions it. The Cashew Fest not only highlights local flavors but also fortifies a sense of pride that resonates throughout Crooked Tree and beyond.

See you there!

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The post Cashew Fest celebrates local heritage and flavor in Crooked Tree appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.

Posted: Friday, May 9, 2025. 10:33 am CST. By Aaron Humes: For over 30 years, the vibrant village of Crooked Tree has transformed into a bustling
The post Cashew Fest celebrates local heritage and flavor in Crooked Tree appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.