Micronesia Public Holidays
Micronesia Public Holidays
Searching for the national holidays in Micronesia? All public holidays in Micronesia are treated like Sundays. This means that most of the Micronesia employees have a day off and all schools are closed on these office holidays. If you are planning a trip to Micronesia and want to know what the national and regional holidays are, check the details in the tables below.
New Year’s Day (January 1)
Description
New Year’s Day, celebrated on January 1st, marks the beginning of the year according to the Gregorian calendar. It is an important public holiday in Micronesia, where people come together to celebrate the start of a new year. The holiday is observed with family gatherings, festivities, and public celebrations.
In Micronesia, New Year’s Day is a time to reflect on the past year and make resolutions for the year ahead. It is commonly marked by social events, fireworks, and street parties, particularly in urban areas. People also use this day to visit family members and friends, enjoy traditional foods, and take part in cultural performances.
Duration
New Year’s Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Micronesia.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, though essential services remain operational.
Constitution Day (May 10)
Description
Constitution Day is celebrated on May 10th to mark the adoption of the Constitution of the Federated States of Micronesia in 1979. This holiday honors the creation of the country’s legal framework, which established the Federated States of Micronesia as a sovereign nation. The Constitution Day celebrations reflect the values of democracy, governance, and self-determination.
Constitution Day is marked by various ceremonies, including speeches by government officials, cultural performances, and public events that focus on the importance of the Constitution in the governance of the country. It is a day to recognize the country’s political achievements and to promote civic engagement and awareness.
Duration
Constitution Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Micronesia.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, though essential services remain operational.
Independence Day (November 3)
Description
Independence Day is celebrated on November 3rd, marking the day in 1986 when Micronesia gained full independence from the United States under the Compact of Free Association. The holiday commemorates the country’s sovereignty and its status as an independent and self-governing nation.
The day is celebrated with national pride, including official ceremonies, military parades, and cultural festivities. These celebrations reflect the nation’s history, achievements, and the continuing importance of self-reliance. In Micronesia, Independence Day is a time for reflection on the struggles and successes of the country since independence, and it is also an occasion for the people to celebrate their national identity through food, music, and dance.
Duration
Independence Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Micronesia.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, though essential services remain operational.
Christmas Day (December 25)
Description
Christmas Day, celebrated on December 25th, marks the birth of Jesus Christ and is an important religious holiday for Christians in Micronesia. The holiday is widely observed, especially by the Christian communities, with church services, family gatherings, and festive meals.
In Micronesia, Christmas is a time for families to come together to celebrate the occasion, exchange gifts, and enjoy a feast of traditional foods. The holiday also includes attending religious services, with many people participating in Christmas Eve services and Christmas Day Masses. Christmas decorations, including lights and Christmas trees, can be seen throughout the islands, creating a festive atmosphere.
Duration
Christmas Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: Primarily Christians.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, though essential services remain operational.
New Year’s Eve (December 31)
Description
New Year’s Eve is celebrated on December 31st, the evening before New Year’s Day. It is a time for the people of Micronesia to reflect on the past year and look forward to the year ahead. People gather to celebrate with parties, fireworks, and family events.
In Micronesia, New Year’s Eve festivities often include traditional music, dances, and gatherings. People typically celebrate by enjoying meals, toasting to the future, and spending time with friends and family. In urban areas, public spaces are decorated with lights and there are fireworks displays at midnight to usher in the New Year.
Duration
New Year’s Eve is typically a one-day holiday in the evening, with businesses, government offices, and schools closing early in preparation for the following day.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Micronesia.
- Government Employees: Given the evening off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close, though essential services remain operational.
FSM National Day (March 10)
Description
FSM National Day is observed on March 10th to commemorate the signing of the Compact of Free Association between the Federated States of Micronesia and the United States in 1986. This day recognizes the historical significance of this agreement and the nation’s ongoing relationship with the United States. The Compact grants Micronesia certain freedoms while maintaining close ties with the U.S.
On FSM National Day, various ceremonies are held to celebrate the diplomatic and political relationship between Micronesia and the U.S., as well as the country’s journey toward greater autonomy. The holiday is marked with speeches from government leaders, parades, and public events focusing on the significance of the Compact of Free Association.
Duration
FSM National Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Micronesia.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, though essential services remain operational.
Thanksgiving Day (Variable Date, November)
Description
Thanksgiving Day is a public holiday in Micronesia, celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November. While the holiday has roots in American tradition, it is widely observed in Micronesia as a time to express gratitude for the year’s blessings. On Thanksgiving Day, people gather for family meals and share traditional foods.
In Micronesia, Thanksgiving is a day of thanks and reflection, with celebrations marked by church services, community gatherings, and large feasts. It is a day for people to spend time with their families and loved ones, and often involves sharing stories, offering thanks, and enjoying a festive meal.
Duration
Thanksgiving Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Micronesia.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, though essential services remain operational.
Table: Overview of Public Holidays in Micronesia
| Public Holiday | Date | Duration | Groups Affected |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | 1 day | General Public, Government Employees |
| Constitution Day | May 10 | 1 day | General Public |
| Independence Day | November 3 | 1 day | General Public |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | 1 day | General Public (Christians) |
| New Year’s Eve | December 31 | 1 evening | General Public |
| FSM National Day | March 10 | 1 day | General Public |
| Thanksgiving Day | Variable (November) | 1 day | General Public |
