| Day | Date | Holiday | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sunday | Jan 01,2023 | New Year's Day | Public Holiday |
| Monday | Jan 02,2023 | Day off for New Year's Day | Public Holiday |
| Tuesday | Feb 21,2023 | Father Lini Day | Public Holiday |
| Sunday | Mar 05,2023 | Custom Chief's Day | Public Holiday |
| Monday | Mar 06,2023 | Day off for Custom Chief's Day | Public Holiday |
| Friday | Apr 07,2023 | Good Friday | Public Holiday |
| Monday | Apr 10,2023 | Easter Monday | Public Holiday |
| Monday | May 01,2023 | Labor Day / May Day | Public Holiday |
| Thursday | May 18,2023 | Ascension Day | Public Holiday |
| Monday | Jul 24,2023 | Children's Day | Public Holiday |
| Sunday | Jul 30,2023 | Independence Day | Public Holiday |
| Monday | Jul 31,2023 | Day off for Independence Day | Public Holiday |
| Tuesday | Aug 15,2023 | Assumption of Mary | Public Holiday |
| Thursday | Oct 05,2023 | Constitution Day | Public Holiday |
| Wednesday | Nov 29,2023 | Unity Day | Public Holiday |
| Monday | Dec 25,2023 | Christmas Day | Public Holiday |
| Tuesday | Dec 26,2023 | Family Day | Public Holiday |
New Year's Day in Vanuatu marks the beginning of the Gregorian calendar with grand celebrations. Islanders greet the new year with lively parades, music, dancing, and fireworks. It's a time for friends and family to come together, reflect on the past year, and make resolutions for the future. This holiday symbolizes hope and fresh beginnings.
Father Lini Day is dedicated to the memory of Walter Lini, Vanuatu's first Prime Minister. Celebrated on February 21st, it honors his contributions to the nation's independence and democracy. On this day, people gather to pay tribute through speeches, cultural performances, and community events. It underscores the importance of strong leadership and unity in Vanuatu's history.
Custom Chief's Day, observed on March 5th, celebrates the indigenous custom chiefs who play a vital role in preserving Vanuatu's unique culture and traditions. The day involves customary rituals, traditional dances, and storytelling. It highlights the significance of indigenous leadership and the preservation of ancestral heritage in the face of modernization.
Good Friday is a significant Christian holiday observed with solemnity in Vanuatu. It commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Local churches hold religious services, processions, and reenactments of the Passion of Christ. It's a time for reflection, prayer, and meditation on the core beliefs of Christianity, making it a spiritually important day in the nation.
Easter Monday, following Good Friday, is a continuation of the Easter celebration. Families often come together for picnics, games, and outdoor activities. It symbolizes renewal, rebirth, and the joy of life. The holiday reinforces Christian faith and values while also serving as a time for relaxation and togetherness.
Labor Day, celebrated on May 1st, recognizes the contributions of workers to Vanuatu's development. It's a day for labor unions, employees, and the government to discuss labor rights and fair employment practices. Parades, speeches, and cultural performances are common, promoting workers' rights and unity among the labor force.
Ascension Day is a Christian holiday observed 40 days after Easter. It commemorates the ascension of Jesus Christ into heaven. In Vanuatu, churches hold special services, and communities come together for fellowship. It reaffirms the Christian faith's importance and the role of religion in the lives of many Vanuatu residents.
Children's Day, celebrated on July 24th, places a spotlight on the nation's youth. Schools, communities, and families organize events and activities to honor children and their importance in society. It's a day filled with games, entertainment, and educational programs, emphasizing the welfare and future prospects of Vanuatu's young generation.
Independence Day, celebrated on July 30th, marks the nation's freedom from British and French colonial rule in 1980. It's a day of national pride, featuring flag-raising ceremonies, parades, cultural performances, and traditional feasts. Independence Day showcases Vanuatu's cultural diversity and the strength of unity among its people.
The Assumption of Mary, observed on August 15th, is a Christian holiday that commemorates the belief that Mary, the mother of Jesus, was taken into heaven. In Vanuatu, it's a day for religious gatherings, prayers, and reflection on Mary's role in the Christian faith. It reaffirms the spiritual significance of Mary and her place in Christianity.
Constitution Day, on October 5th, celebrates the adoption of Vanuatu's constitution in 1980. It's a day of reflection on the nation's governance principles and democratic values. Events include parades, educational programs, and discussions about the constitution's significance in preserving Vanuatu's sovereignty and rights.
Unity Day, on November 29th, underscores the importance of unity among Vanuatu's diverse population. It's a day for cultural performances, sports competitions, and community events that bring people from different backgrounds together. Unity Day highlights the strength of the nation's cultural diversity and the importance of harmony.
Christmas Day in Vanuatu is a time of festive joy and religious celebration. Families attend church services, exchange gifts, and enjoy special feasts. Caroling and nativity scenes are common traditions. It symbolizes the birth of Jesus Christ and the spirit of giving, emphasizing the values of love, compassion, and togetherness.
Family Day, on December 26th, promotes the importance of family bonds and togetherness. It's a day for families to spend quality time, engage in activities, and strengthen their connections. Family values are central, reflecting the significance of kinship and support in Vanuatu's culture.
