National Heroes and Benefactors Day for the year 2024 is celebrated/observed on Thursday, March 9th. There are until the next observance.

On March 9, Belize celebrates National Heroes and Benefactors Day. It is meant to honor and remember Baron Bliss, who gave millions to the people of Belize to make their lives better.

📆 When is National Heroes and Benefactors Day?

This year, National Heroes and Benefactors Day is on March 9th. It is the 2nd Thursday in March; in 2024, it is on Saturday.

Countdown to National Heroes and Benefactors Day

Did you know: To memorialize the baron, the Baron Bliss Memorial Lighthouse was erected.

You can also view all fascinating things you didn’t know about and facts about March 9, 2023.

📜 History of National Heroes and Benefactors Day

Baron Bliss was born Henry Edward Ernest Victor Barrettes in 1869. He assumed the title of Fourth Baron Barreto in his early twenties. He worked hard to become a successful engineer, and he made a lot of money by making gun components for the British. He was also an effective Justice of the Peace for many years, frequently arguing for people’s rights and avoiding numerous disputes. Unfortunately, when Baron Bliss was 42, he acquired polio and became paralyzed from the waist down, rendering him unable to function as an engineer. But his spirit was as powerful as it had always been.

When Baron Bliss learned he suddenly had all the time in the world to pursue his hobbies, he chose to cruise to the Caribbean and spend his time fishing and sailing. He adored being on the sea and connecting with nature. For him, it was a tranquil and relaxing experience. Baron Bliss visited the Bahamas and Trinidad, where he spent his time exploring the gorgeous reefs and meeting the locals. He later visited British Honduras, now known as Belize, and fell in love with it so much that he decided to spend the rest of his life there. But he never made it to the mainland. Instead, he lived aboard his yacht and gave his fortune to Hondurans when he died.

☑️ National Heroes and Benefactors Day facts

He used a wheelchair
He fished from his yacht despite using a wheelchair to get around.

He named his yacht
He gave his boat the name Sea King II.

He lived in Marlow before traveling
Prior to his international adventures, he resided in Marlow.

Things to do on National Heroes and Benefactors Day

Thank a hero
A hero is defined as someone who helps others. Thank someone who is well-known for assisting others.

Learn about Belize
During the vacation, you may discover more about Belize and its rich culture. There are numerous fascinating facts about Belize that will astound you.

Visit Belize
Pay a visit to this lovely nation. Discover the fascinating culture, interact with the maritime people, and dive into the Great Blue Hole.

📅 National Heroes and Benefactors Day Observances

YEAR DATE DAY
2024 March 9 Saturday
2025 March 9 Sunday
2026 March 9 Monday
2027 March 9 Tuesday
2028 March 9 Thursday

View all March holidays, including Federal and other Appreciation holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and cool facts about National Heroes and Benefactors Day. So be sure to check back soon.