| Day | Date | Holiday | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sunday | Jan 01,2023 | New Year | Public Holiday |
| Monday | Jan 02,2023 | Day off for New Year | Public Holiday |
| Friday | Apr 07,2023 | Good Friday | Public Holiday |
| Saturday | Apr 08,2023 | Holy Saturday | Public Holiday |
| Monday | Apr 10,2023 | Easter Monday | Public Holiday |
| Sunday | May 14,2023 | Girmit Day | Public Holiday |
| Monday | May 15,2023 | Day off for Girmit Day | Public Holiday |
| Monday | May 29,2023 | Sukuna's Day Holiday | Public Holiday |
| Thursday | Sep 07,2023 | Constitution Day | Observance |
| Wednesday | Sep 27,2023 | The Prophet's Birthday (Tentative Date) | Observance |
| Monday | Oct 02,2023 | The Prophet's Birthday Holiday (Tentative Date) | Public Holiday |
| Tuesday | Oct 10,2023 | Fiji Day | Public Holiday |
| Sunday | Nov 12,2023 | Daylight Saving Time starts | Clock change/Daylight Saving Time |
| Monday | Nov 13,2023 | Diwali | Public Holiday |
| Monday | Dec 25,2023 | Christmas Day | Public Holiday |
| Tuesday | Dec 26,2023 | Boxing Day | Public Holiday |
New Year in Fiji, known as "Naba Voli," is celebrated on January 1st with enthusiasm and joy. It marks the beginning of a fresh year, and Fijians welcome it with open arms. People gather with family and friends for parties, feasts, and fireworks. It's a time for reflection on the past year and setting goals for the future. New Year's celebrations in Fiji are a fusion of cultural diversity, where various communities come together to usher in the new year, highlighting the nation's unity in diversity. It's a moment of cultural exchange and a shared sense of hope for the future.
Good Friday, known as "Vakarau ni Siga Levu" in Fijian, is a significant Christian holiday observed on the Friday before Easter Sunday. It commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and his sacrifice for humanity. Fijian Christians attend church services, processions, and reflect on the meaning of Christ's sacrifice. Good Friday holds cultural importance as it unites the Christian community in Fiji and emphasizes the spiritual values that bind them together. It's a day of solemnity, devotion, and cultural significance for Christians in the country.
Holy Saturday, or "Sarosarovi ni Siga Tabu," falls between Good Friday and Easter Sunday. It is a day of reflection and anticipation for Fijian Christians as they prepare for the celebration of Jesus Christ's resurrection. Many participate in church services and rituals. Holy Saturday is culturally significant as it underscores the importance of faith and the central role of Christianity in Fijian culture. It's a time to strengthen one's spiritual connection and embrace the cultural heritage of Christianity in Fiji.
Easter Monday, known as "Sigatabu ni Mataka ni Siga Levu," is an extension of Easter celebrations in Fiji. It provides an opportunity for Fijians to continue their observance of this important Christian holiday. Families often spend quality time together, and some engage in outdoor activities and picnics. Easter Monday emphasizes the cultural value of spending time with loved ones and enjoying the natural beauty of Fiji. It's a day that promotes family bonds and the appreciation of the country's scenic landscapes.
Girmit Day, celebrated on May 14th, commemorates the arrival of the first indentured laborers from India in 1879. These laborers, known as "Girmityas," played a significant role in shaping Fiji's cultural diversity. Girmit Day is a time for Fijians to reflect on this history and the contributions of the Indo-Fijian community to the nation's development. Cultural events, exhibitions, and discussions are held to honor the Girmityas' legacy and promote unity in Fiji's multicultural society. It's a day that celebrates cultural diversity and fosters a sense of belonging among all Fijians.
Sukuna's Day, celebrated on May 30th, honors the legacy of Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna, a prominent Fijian statesman and leader. He played a pivotal role in Fiji's history and culture, advocating for unity and development. On Sukuna's Day, cultural activities, including traditional dances and ceremonies, are held to pay tribute to his contributions. It's a day that emphasizes the cultural significance of leadership, unity, and patriotism in Fiji and serves as an inspiration for future generations to uphold these values. Sukuna's Day is a celebration of Fijian heritage and the enduring impact of great leaders.
Constitution Day, celebrated on September 7th, commemorates the adoption of Fiji's first constitution in 1970 when the country gained independence. It's a day that highlights Fiji's sovereignty and the importance of the constitution in shaping the nation's governance. Cultural events, including traditional ceremonies and performances, showcase Fiji's rich heritage and unity as a nation. Constitution Day serves as a reminder of Fiji's history and the cultural significance of its constitution in upholding democratic values and national identity. It's a day that promotes civic pride and cultural diversity in Fiji.
The Prophet's Birthday, also known as "Mawlid al-Nabi," is celebrated by Fijian Muslims, although the date may vary. It commemorates the birth of the Islamic prophet Muhammad. Muslims engage in prayers, recitations, and communal meals. It's a day that fosters cultural unity within the Muslim community in Fiji and emphasizes the cultural importance of their faith. The Prophet's Birthday is a time for reflection, spiritual growth, and cultural expression among Fijian Muslims.
Fiji Day, celebrated on October 10th, marks the anniversary of Fiji's independence from British colonial rule in 1970. It's a national holiday filled with parades, cultural performances, and flag-raising ceremonies. Fiji Day emphasizes the cultural significance of independence and the importance of national unity. It's a day when Fijians come together to celebrate their heritage and the journey towards self-governance. Fiji Day instills a sense of pride and patriotism in the hearts of all Fijians and reinforces their cultural identity as a sovereign nation.
Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Fiji typically starts in November. Although it's not a traditional holiday, it has cultural and practical importance. DST aims to make better use of daylight hours by advancing the clock by one hour. This practice allows Fijians to enjoy longer evenings and conserve energy. DST aligns with global timekeeping practices and highlights Fiji's adaptability to modern changes while preserving cultural values and improving energy efficiency. It's a reminder of Fiji's commitment to sustainable practices and cultural relevance in a changing world.
Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is celebrated by the Indo-Fijian community and falls in October or November. It marks the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. Homes are adorned with lamps and candles, and colorful rangoli designs decorate the entrances. Families exchange sweets and gifts, and there are fireworks displays. Diwali celebrates cultural diversity in Fiji and promotes harmony among communities. It's a day that showcases the cultural richness of the Indo-Fijian community and encourages cultural exchange and understanding among all Fijians.
Christmas Day, known as "Sigatabu ni Kana ni Krismasi" in Fijian, is a Christian holiday celebrated on December 25th. It commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ and is observed with church services, carol singing, and the exchange of gifts. Families come together to share special meals, including traditional Fijian dishes. Christmas Day emphasizes the cultural importance of Christianity in Fiji and strengthens the bonds of family and community. It's a time of joy, love, and cultural expression that brings Fijians together to celebrate their faith and heritage.
Boxing Day, celebrated on December 26th, is a continuation of Christmas festivities in Fiji. It's a public holiday that provides an opportunity for Fijians to relax, spend time with loved ones, and engage in recreational activities. Some may continue to exchange gifts and enjoy the festive atmosphere. Boxing Day promotes cultural values related to leisure, family bonds, and the appreciation of the holiday season. It's a day that encourages Fijians to enjoy the cultural aspects of the Christmas season while fostering a sense of togetherness and relaxation.
