Vanuatu

Vanuatu : Public Holidays and Bank Holidays 2025 2026 2027

Public Holidays in Vanuatu

Vanuatu celebrates a variety of public holidays throughout the year that reflect its rich cultural heritage, religious traditions, and national pride. These holidays provide an opportunity for communities to come together and honor significant events in the country’s history, as well as religious observances and cultural customs.

• New Year's Day
  Marks the first day of the year on January 1st. It is a time for celebration and hope for prosperity in the coming year. Activities typically include family gatherings and community events.

• Father Lini Day
  Celebrated in honor of Father Walter Lini, Vanuatu’s first Prime Minister and a national hero who played a key role in the country's independence. Occurs on February 26th, featuring speeches and commemorations.

• Custom Chief's Day
  This day celebrates the traditional chiefs who play an important role in preserving customs and traditions. It is observed with cultural performances and ceremonies reflecting Vanuatu’s indigenous heritage.

• Good Friday
  A Christian holiday commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Observed with religious services and reflection, it falls on the Friday before Easter Sunday.

• Easter Monday
  A continuation of Easter celebrations, this day is marked by public holidays and community gatherings to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus.

• Labour Day
  Celebrated on May 1st to honor the contributions of workers. Events often include parades and speeches promoting workers' rights and achievements.

• Ascension Day
  A Christian holiday occurring 40 days after Easter, commemorating the ascension of Jesus to heaven. It is observed with church services.

• Children's Day
  A day dedicated to celebrating children and raising awareness of their rights and needs. Activities may include school events and community programs.

• Independence Day
  Celebrated on July 30th, this holiday marks Vanuatu’s independence from colonial rule in 1980. Festivities include flag-raising ceremonies, cultural dances, and public addresses.

• Assumption Day
  A Christian feast day on August 15th that honors the assumption of the Virgin Mary into heaven. It is celebrated with church services and religious processions.

• Constitution Day
  Marks the adoption of Vanuatu’s constitution. This day is often observed with ceremonies emphasizing the country’s governance and legal foundations.

• Constitution Day (observed)
  When Constitution Day falls on a weekend, it is observed on the following weekday to ensure workers can participate in celebrations.

• Unity Day
  Celebrates national unity and social harmony. Community events and cultural exchanges highlight the diverse yet united nature of Vanuatu’s society.

• Christmas Day
  Celebrated on December 25th, Christmas is a significant religious and cultural holiday in Vanuatu, characterized by family gatherings, church services, and festive meals.

• Family Day
  A day to honor family bonds and relationships. Observed with family-oriented activities and community programs.

• Father Lini Day (observed)
  When Father Lini Day falls on a weekend, the holiday is observed on the next working day.

• Unity Day (observed)
  If Unity Day falls on a weekend, it is observed on the following weekday.

• Assumption Day (observed)
  Observed on the next weekday if the original date falls on a weekend.

• Family Day (observed)
  Similarly observed on a weekday if the original Family Day coincides with a weekend.

Site officiel de référence

• Vanuatu Government Official Portal