YWCA’s Red, White & Bram Party Cruise Set to Bring Music, Culture and Celebration to the Water
A Celebration on the Water
Today’s episode of Open Your Eyes highlighted the YWCA’s 3rd Annual Red, White & Bram Party Cruise, happening this Sunday, September 21st, as part of Belize’s Independence celebrations.
Diane Haylock, General Secretary of the YWCA, joined the show to preview the annual fundraising event, which combines music, food, culture, and a four-hour cruise around the Belize City harbor.
The event was originally introduced as a fundraising initiative to support the YWCA’s programs and has since become an annual Independence celebration. Haylock explained that the cruise gives attendees an opportunity to celebrate Belizean heritage while enjoying a day of entertainment with friends and fellow Belizeans.
Boom & Chime Takes the Stage
One of the main highlights this year will be the Boom & Chime Second Generation Band, a new branding of the well-known Boom & Chime band featuring members of the next generation of the family.
Haylock shared her excitement about the band’s current sound and their efforts to remain relevant while maintaining the Belizean musical identity associated with the original group.
The entertainment lineup will also feature DJ Hugo, who will keep the music going between the band’s performances. Haylock also teased additional Belizean musical elements, including a young vocalist performing music by Leela Vernon.
Four Hours of Music, Food and Fun
The party cruise departs from the Fort George Marina Dock at 2:00 p.m., with boarding beginning around 12:30 p.m. Haylock emphasized that the boat will leave promptly at 2:00 p.m., with the cruise returning at approximately 6:00 p.m.
The $100 ticket covers admission and the cruise experience, while food and drinks are available separately. Food options include rice and beans, snack boxes, and tamales, with pre-ordering available ahead of the event. A selection of drinks will also be available through the event’s bar service.
The cruise is designed as an adult event, bringing together a predominantly mature audience while still attracting younger adults who enjoy the music, atmosphere, and Belizean celebration.
Supporting the YWCA’s Programs
Beyond the festivities, the Red, White & Bram Party Cruise serves an important fundraising purpose for the YWCA.
Haylock highlighted several programs supported by the organization, including its daycare and preschool, adult skills training programs, Helping Early Leavers Program, and activities for seniors.
The YWCA’s senior program provides weekly activities including health classes, trips, social activities, and opportunities for seniors to connect with one another. The organization also continues to work on strengthening its Helping Early Leavers Program, which provides young women who have left school with opportunities to continue their education while developing practical skills.
As the YWCA prepares for another year of its Red, White & Bram Party Cruise, the event offers Belizeans an opportunity to celebrate Independence, enjoy local music and culture, and contribute to programs that support members of the community.
For those still looking to attend, tickets are available through the YWCA.