Palau Public Holidays
Palau Public Holidays
Searching for the national holidays in Palau? All public holidays in Palau are treated like Sundays. This means that most of the Palau employees have a day off and all schools are closed on these office holidays. If you are planning a trip to Palau 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. In Palau, the holiday is celebrated with family gatherings, community events, and festive activities. It is a time for reflection on the past year, as well as setting goals and resolutions for the year ahead. The people of Palau enjoy the day with traditional foods and socializing, and many take time to relax and enjoy the first day of the year.
New Year’s Day is a public holiday in Palau, and many businesses and government offices close for the day. The focus is on spending time with loved ones, participating in community celebrations, and enjoying a peaceful day of rest.
Duration
New Year’s Day is a one-day holiday, and most businesses, government offices, and schools are closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Palau.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, except for essential services.
International Human Rights Day (December 10)
Description
International Human Rights Day is celebrated on December 10th, marking the anniversary of the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by the United Nations in 1948. In Palau, this day serves as a reminder of the importance of human rights, freedom, and dignity for all people. The holiday is an opportunity to promote awareness and understanding of human rights issues both locally and globally.
In Palau, International Human Rights Day is often observed with educational activities, discussions, and public awareness campaigns about human rights topics. Some government institutions and civil society organizations may organize events to highlight human rights issues and encourage citizens to participate in the ongoing efforts to protect and promote these rights.
Duration
International Human Rights Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools typically closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Palau.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, though essential services may remain open.
Palau National Day (March 1)
Description
Palau National Day, celebrated on March 1st, marks the day in 1981 when Palau became an official republic after a referendum voted in favor of independence from the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands under U.S. administration. The day is a national celebration of Palau’s sovereignty, independence, and cultural heritage.
Palau National Day is marked with various official events, including speeches by government officials, flag-raising ceremonies, parades, and cultural performances that highlight the country’s unique history and traditions. Citizens participate in community gatherings, reflecting on the nation’s independence and the ongoing efforts to preserve Palauan traditions and culture.
Duration
Palau National Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Palau.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, though essential services remain operational.
Good Friday (Variable Date, March or April)
Description
Good Friday is a Christian holiday that commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The date varies each year, falling on the Friday before Easter Sunday. In Palau, Good Friday is observed by the Christian community with church services, prayers, and solemn reflection. The day is marked by a quiet, reflective atmosphere as citizens meditate on the significance of Christ’s sacrifice.
Many people attend church services and participate in traditional Good Friday rituals. It is also a time for fasting and community gatherings focused on spiritual reflection. While it is a religious holiday, many businesses and government offices close for the day.
Duration
Good Friday is a one-day holiday, and businesses, government offices, and schools are closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: Primarily Christians.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, except for essential services.
Easter Sunday (Variable Date, March or April)
Description
Easter Sunday is a major Christian holiday that celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. The date of Easter Sunday varies each year, falling on the first Sunday after the first full moon following the spring equinox. In Palau, Easter Sunday is a day of celebration, marked by church services, family gatherings, and festive meals.
The day is celebrated with joy, as it represents the triumph of life over death. People in Palau attend Mass, participate in religious processions, and engage in family celebrations, often enjoying traditional meals and sharing quality time with loved ones. It is a holiday filled with hope and renewal.
Duration
Easter Sunday is a one-day holiday, and businesses, government offices, and schools are closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens, particularly Christians.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, though essential services remain operational.
Labor Day (May 1)
Description
Labor Day, observed on May 1st, is a global celebration of workers’ rights and labor movements. In Palau, this day is dedicated to recognizing the contributions of workers and promoting the importance of fair working conditions, equal opportunities, and social justice. The holiday is marked by events that highlight labor rights and advocate for better working conditions.
Although Labor Day in Palau may not feature the large demonstrations seen in other countries, it is still an important day for reflecting on the significance of the workforce and the rights of workers. In some areas, local government organizations or trade unions may organize events to raise awareness about labor issues.
Duration
Labor Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools typically closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens, particularly workers and union members.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, though essential services remain operational.
Independence Day (July 4)
Description
Independence Day, celebrated on July 4th, marks the day in 1978 when Palau officially became a self-governing nation under a Compact of Free Association with the United States. This day is one of national pride, as it commemorates the country’s sovereignty and its ability to govern itself.
The day is marked by various official celebrations, including parades, speeches, and cultural events that highlight the progress and achievements of the nation. Citizens participate in gatherings, and the country’s flag is prominently displayed as a symbol of national pride. Palauans reflect on their independence and the journey toward becoming a self-sustaining, independent country.
Duration
Independence Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Palau.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, though essential services remain operational.
Thanksgiving Day (Fourth Thursday of November)
Description
Thanksgiving Day, observed on the fourth Thursday of November, is a traditional American holiday that has been adopted in Palau. This day is celebrated with family gatherings, meals, and expressions of gratitude. It is a time for citizens to reflect on their blessings and give thanks for the harvest, family, and community.
In Palau, Thanksgiving is marked by large meals, often featuring turkey, stuffing, and pies, similar to the American tradition. Families come together to share food, enjoy each other’s company, and reflect on what they are grateful for. While not originally a Palauan holiday, it has become an important occasion for many in the country.
Duration
Thanksgiving Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Palau.
- 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 one of the most significant holidays in Palau. The day is observed with church services, family gatherings, and festive meals. It is a time of joy, peace, and goodwill, as families come together to celebrate the holiday season.
In Palau, Christmas is celebrated with the same enthusiasm as in other countries, with church services, community events, and the exchange of gifts. Traditional Christmas meals, which may include ham, turkey, and local dishes, are prepared and enjoyed by families. The holiday also brings a sense of unity, as people reflect on the values of kindness and compassion.
Duration
Christmas Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Palau, especially Christians.
- 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 Palau
| Public Holiday | Date | Duration | Groups Affected |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | 1 day | General Public, Government Employees |
| International Human Rights Day | December 10 | 1 day | General Public |
| Palau National Day | March 1 | 1 day | General Public |
| Good Friday | Variable (March/April) | 1 day | General Public (Christians) |
| Easter Sunday | Variable (March/April) | 1 day | General Public (Christians) |
| Labor Day | May 1 | 1 day | General Public, Workers |
| Independence Day | July 4 | 1 day | General Public |
| Thanksgiving Day | Fourth Thursday of November | 1 day | General Public |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | 1 day | General Public (Christians) |
