Solomon Islands Public Holidays
Solomon Islands Public Holidays
Searching for the national holidays in Solomon Islands? All public holidays in Solomon Islands are treated like Sundays. This means that most of the Solomon Islands employees have a day off and all schools are closed on these office holidays. If you are planning a trip to Solomon Islands 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 in the Solomon Islands marks the beginning of the year, celebrated on January 1st. This public holiday is observed with national festivities and family gatherings. People often attend church services, partake in feasts, and enjoy local entertainment. The day also marks a time for reflection and setting personal goals for the upcoming year.
Duration
The holiday lasts for one day, with businesses and government offices typically closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of the Solomon Islands
- Government Employees: Typically granted a day off
Good Friday (Variable Date in March or April)
Description
Good Friday is a Christian observance that commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. It is marked with solemn church services and religious activities across the nation. Many people spend the day in prayer and reflection. The event holds particular significance for the Christian community in the Solomon Islands.
Duration
One day holiday, typically on the Friday before Easter.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens (especially Christians)
- Government Employees: Given the day off
Easter Monday (Variable Date in March or April)
Description
Easter Monday follows the celebration of Easter Sunday, which commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Easter Monday is a day for rest and recovery after the religious celebrations. In the Solomon Islands, many use this day for relaxation, family activities, and more religious observance.
Duration
One day holiday, observed the Monday after Easter Sunday.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens, particularly Christians
- Government Employees: Given the day off
Labour Day (May 1)
Description
Labour Day, also known as International Workers’ Day, is observed on May 1st. This public holiday honors the contributions and achievements of workers. It is an important day for trade unions, political organizations, and various civil society groups to celebrate labor rights and advocate for better working conditions.
Duration
One day holiday, businesses and government offices are generally closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens, especially those in labor unions or employment
- Government Employees: Typically granted a day off
Ascension Day (40 Days after Easter)
Description
Ascension Day is a Christian observance marking the ascension of Jesus Christ into heaven. It occurs 40 days after Easter Sunday. In the Solomon Islands, it is a day for church services and religious observances. Many people take time to reflect on the teachings of Jesus.
Duration
One day holiday.
Groups Affected
- General Public: Especially the Christian population
- Government Employees: Given the day off
Whit Monday (50 Days after Easter)
Description
Whit Monday, or Pentecost, celebrates the descent of the Holy Spirit on the disciples of Jesus Christ. It is celebrated 50 days after Easter. In the Solomon Islands, the day is marked with church services and community events that commemorate the event in the Christian faith.
Duration
One day holiday, observed 50 days after Easter.
Groups Affected
- General Public: Primarily Christians
- Government Employees: Granted the day off
National Unity Day (July 7)
Description
National Unity Day is a public holiday in the Solomon Islands that celebrates the country’s unity following its independence from the United Kingdom in 1978. It commemorates the efforts made to bring together the diverse cultural groups and regions in the nation. This day is marked with various cultural celebrations, traditional dances, and national pride.
Duration
One day holiday, observed with national events and activities.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of the Solomon Islands
- Government Employees: Typically granted a day off
Independence Day (July 7)
Description
Independence Day, observed on July 7th, marks the Solomon Islands’ independence from British colonial rule in 1978. The day is a patriotic celebration of the nation’s sovereignty, with flag-raising ceremonies, national speeches, and cultural performances. It is a time for citizens to reflect on their nation’s history and achievements.
Duration
One day holiday, observed with national ceremonies and celebrations.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of the Solomon Islands
- Government Employees: Given the day off
Solomon Islands Day (August 7)
Description
Solomon Islands Day is a public holiday that celebrates the nation’s cultural heritage and history. It marks the day in 1942 when the Solomon Islands became a major battlefield during World War II, particularly the Battle of Guadalcanal. The holiday honors the sacrifices made by Solomon Islanders during the war, with national remembrance services, historical displays, and commemorative events.
Duration
One day holiday, marked by national memorials and events.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens, especially those with historical ties to the war
- Government Employees: Granted the day off
Christmas Day (December 25)
Description
Christmas Day is a Christian holiday that commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ. It is celebrated by attending church services, family gatherings, and festive meals. People exchange gifts, enjoy special foods, and celebrate together as a community. Christmas Day holds immense cultural and religious significance in the Solomon Islands.
Duration
One day holiday, celebrated with religious observances and family activities.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens, particularly Christians
- Government Employees: Given the day off
Boxing Day (December 26)
Description
Boxing Day, observed on December 26th, is traditionally a time for people to give to the less fortunate. It is a public holiday following Christmas Day. In the Solomon Islands, it is marked by additional family celebrations and community events. People often continue the holiday festivities and visit relatives.
Duration
One day holiday, celebrated as an extension of Christmas.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens
- Government Employees: Given the day off
Table: Overview of Public Holidays in Solomon Islands
| Public Holiday | Date | Duration | Groups Affected |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | 1 day | General Public, Government Employees |
| Good Friday | Variable (March/April) | 1 day | General Public (Christians), Government Employees |
| Easter Monday | Variable (March/April) | 1 day | General Public (Christians), Government Employees |
| Labour Day | May 1 | 1 day | General Public, Government Employees |
| Ascension Day | 40 Days after Easter | 1 day | Christian Population, Government Employees |
| Whit Monday | 50 Days after Easter | 1 day | Christian Population, Government Employees |
| National Unity Day | July 7 | 1 day | General Public, Government Employees |
| Independence Day | July 7 | 1 day | General Public, Government Employees |
| Solomon Islands Day | August 7 | 1 day | General Public, Government Employees |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | 1 day | General Public (Christians), Government Employees |
| Boxing Day | December 26 | 1 day | General Public, Government Employees |
