Kiribati Public Holidays
Kiribati Public Holidays
Searching for the national holidays in Kiribati? All public holidays in Kiribati are treated like Sundays. This means that most of the Kiribati employees have a day off and all schools are closed on these office holidays. If you are planning a trip to Kiribati and want to know what the national and regional holidays are, check the details in the tables below.
Kiribati, a small island nation located in the central Pacific Ocean, celebrates a variety of public holidays that are deeply tied to the country’s cultural heritage, religious beliefs, and national pride. These holidays provide opportunities for the people of Kiribati to celebrate their history, culture, and achievements as a nation. The public holidays in Kiribati are recognized nationwide, with celebrations reflecting the nation’s unique island lifestyle and traditions. Below is a detailed description of the public holidays in Kiribati.
1. New Year’s Day (New Year’s Day) – January 1
Description
New Year’s Day is celebrated on January 1, marking the beginning of the year. This holiday is a global celebration, and in Kiribati, it is no different. It is a time to reflect on the past year and welcome the new one with optimism and hope. The holiday is celebrated with family gatherings, outdoor activities, and sometimes fireworks on some islands.
Observance
New Year’s Day is a public holiday across Kiribati. Government offices, schools, and most businesses are closed, while families spend the day together enjoying festive meals. People may also take part in local community events and celebrations. The island atmosphere brings a laid-back and joyful vibe to the day.
2. Gospel Day (Gospel Day) – January 14
Description
Gospel Day celebrates the arrival of Christianity in Kiribati, which was introduced by missionaries in the late 19th century. The day is a celebration of the country’s Christian heritage and a time for the people of Kiribati to reflect on the role that Christianity has played in shaping their culture and society.
Observance
Gospel Day is a public holiday observed with church services, religious ceremonies, and community gatherings. Many people take the day to participate in church activities, sing hymns, and reflect on the significance of Christianity in their daily lives. Government offices and schools are closed, while churches host special services to mark the occasion.
3. National Day (National Day) – July 12
Description
National Day marks the anniversary of Kiribati’s independence from British colonial rule, which was achieved on July 12, 1979. It is a day of national pride and patriotism, commemorating the establishment of Kiribati as a sovereign nation. The day is celebrated with various cultural activities, parades, and speeches from government leaders.
Observance
National Day is a major public holiday in Kiribati, and it is celebrated with various events that highlight the country’s independence and sovereignty. In the capital, Tarawa, there are large celebrations including military parades, traditional dances, cultural performances, and speeches. Schools and government offices are closed, and businesses may operate on a reduced schedule. It is a time of reflection on the country’s progress and its future.
4. Constitution Day (Constitution Day) – July 16
Description
Constitution Day celebrates the ratification of Kiribati’s first constitution in 1979, which provided the legal foundation for the country’s governance and civil rights. It is a day to recognize the importance of the constitution in shaping the legal and political framework of the nation.
Observance
Constitution Day is a public holiday, primarily observed with formal ceremonies, speeches by political leaders, and educational events. In many schools, students take part in activities that teach them about the constitution and the importance of the rule of law in their country. Government offices are closed, and businesses operate as usual.
5. Labour Day (Labour Day) – May 1
Description
Labour Day, observed globally, is a day to honor the contributions of workers and labor movements. In Kiribati, it is a time to reflect on the rights of workers, their role in the country’s economy, and the importance of fair working conditions. Labour Day is marked by discussions, gatherings, and events that address labor issues.
Observance
Labour Day is a public holiday in Kiribati. On this day, there are discussions and ceremonies regarding workers’ rights and the importance of labor unions. Many people participate in events that highlight the contributions of the workforce to the country’s development. Most businesses, schools, and government offices are closed for the day, and some events may include rallies or public demonstrations.
6. Independence Day (Independence Day) – July 12
Description
Independence Day marks the anniversary of Kiribati’s independence from the United Kingdom in 1979. It celebrates the sovereignty of Kiribati and its status as an independent republic. This day is an occasion for the people of Kiribati to reflect on the nation’s journey to independence and its achievements since gaining self-rule.
Observance
Independence Day is a public holiday in Kiribati. There are national ceremonies, speeches, and parades that take place across the country. Most notably, the capital city of Tarawa hosts events that include traditional performances, flag-raising ceremonies, and speeches from government leaders. Schools and government offices are closed, and many people celebrate with family gatherings and public events.
7. Christmas Day (Christmas Day) – December 25
Description
Christmas Day is a significant religious holiday in Kiribati, marking the birth of Jesus Christ. It is celebrated with church services, family gatherings, and festive meals. Kiribati, with its predominantly Christian population, observes the day with great reverence, and it is a time for reflection and joy.
Observance
Christmas Day is a public holiday in Kiribati. On this day, people attend church services to celebrate the birth of Christ. Families gather to enjoy traditional meals, and many communities organize special events. Most businesses, government offices, and schools are closed, and the holiday is spent with family and friends. Public transport operates on a limited schedule.
8. Boxing Day (Boxing Day) – December 26
Description
Boxing Day, celebrated on December 26, is traditionally a time to give gifts to the less fortunate and to spend time with family and friends. In Kiribati, it is also a time to reflect on the previous year’s celebrations and continue spending time with loved ones.
Observance
Boxing Day is a public holiday in Kiribati, though it is less widely observed than Christmas Day. Many people use the day to visit family, enjoy time with loved ones, or relax after the Christmas festivities. Most businesses, government offices, and schools are closed. The holiday is generally marked by informal gatherings, community events, and charitable activities.
9. Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (Mawlid al-Nabi) – Date Varies
Description
Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday is a religious holiday observed by the Muslim community in Kiribati to honor the birth of Prophet Muhammad. The day is celebrated with prayers, recitations of religious texts, and community gatherings. It is a time for reflection on the teachings of Islam and the life of the Prophet.
Observance
Mawlid al-Nabi is a public holiday for the Muslim community in Kiribati. The holiday is observed with mosque services, prayers, and community meals. Government offices and schools may be closed for the day, but public services may operate with limited availability. It is a spiritual day observed with a focus on religious reflection and community involvement.
10. National Prayer Day (National Prayer Day) – Date Varies
Description
National Prayer Day is an important event in Kiribati, where people from all religions come together for a day of prayer and reflection. It is a time for the nation to focus on unity, peace, and prosperity, invoking divine guidance for the country’s leaders and citizens.
Observance
National Prayer Day is recognized with national prayers and services, often led by religious leaders from across the island. The day is marked by peaceful gatherings, and it serves as an opportunity for the people of Kiribati to unite spiritually. Government offices, schools, and businesses may close for the day, with most people participating in prayer activities and reflection.
Table: Public Holidays in Kiribati and Observance
| Holiday | Date | Observed By | Public Sector | Private Sector | Schools |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Nationwide | Closed | Open | Closed |
| Gospel Day | January 14 | Christian Community | Closed | Open | Closed |
| National Day | July 12 | Nationwide | Closed | Open | Closed |
| Constitution Day | July 16 | Nationwide | Closed | Open | Closed |
| Labour Day | May 1 | Nationwide | Closed | Open | Closed |
| Islamic New Year | Date Varies | Muslim Community | Closed | Open | Closed |
| Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday | Date Varies | Muslim Community | Closed | Open | Closed |
| Eid al-Fitr | Date Varies | Muslim Community | Closed | Open | Closed |
| Eid al-Adha | Date Varies | Muslim Community | Closed | Open | Closed |
| National Prayer Day | Date Varies | Nationwide | Closed | Open | Closed |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | Nationwide | Closed | Open | Closed |
| Boxing Day | December 26 | Nationwide | Closed | Open | Closed |
11. Other Observances
1. Independence Heroes’ Day
Independence Heroes’ Day honors the individuals who played a key role in the country’s journey to independence. It is a day to remember their contributions and reflect on the country’s history.
2. National Family Day
National Family Day celebrates the importance of family in Kiribati society. The day encourages family gatherings and activities that strengthen bonds within families and communities.
3. Makar Sankranti
Makar Sankranti is an important harvest festival observed by certain ethnic groups in Kiribati. The holiday marks the shift in the sun’s position and is celebrated with various cultural events, especially in rural areas.
4. Independence Heroes’ Day
This day reflects on the bravery of those who contributed to Kiribati’s independence and the nation’s self-determination. Special ceremonies are held to honor these individuals and to reflect on the journey of the country towards independence.
