Public Holidays in Fiji 2025 – National & Cultural Calendar
Fiji observes a mix of Christian, cultural, and national public holidays. These days reflect the island nation’s multi-faith heritage and colonial as well as indigenous history. On official public holidays, government offices, schools, banks, and many businesses close across Fiji. The government has gazetted 11 public holidays for 2025.
Overview of Public Holidays in Fiji
Fiji’s public holiday calendar includes Christian observances (Good Friday, Easter), commemorative days (Girmit Day), national celebrations (Fiji Day), and religious holidays for the Muslim and Hindu communities (Prophet’s Birthday, Diwali). Some holidays fall on fixed Gregorian dates; others shift or are declared based on lunar observations.
List of Public Holidays in Fiji (2025)
| Holiday | Date (2025) | Day | Significance / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Wednesday | Beginning of Gregorian calendar year |
| Good Friday | April 18 | Friday | Christian observance before Easter Sunday |
| Easter Saturday | April 19 | Saturday | Part of Easter weekend public holiday schedule |
| Easter Monday | April 21 | Monday | Christian holiday following Easter Sunday |
| Girmit Day | May 12 | Monday | Commemorates the arrival of indentured laborers (Indian community) |
| Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna Day | May 30 | Friday | Honors influential Fijian statesman Sukuna |
| Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday | September 8 | Monday | Islamic observance (date subject to lunar calendar) |
| Fiji Day | October 10 | Friday | Anniversary of Fiji’s independence and cession events |
| Diwali (Festival of Lights) | October 21 | Tuesday | Hindu festival celebrated nationally in Fiji |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | Thursday | Christian holiday observing the birth of Jesus |
| Boxing Day | December 26 | Friday | Day after Christmas, recognized as public holiday |
In total, 11 public holidays are officially gazetted for Fiji in 2025.
Religious, Cultural & National Significance
Many holidays in Fiji reflect its religious diversity: Christian holidays around Easter, Islamic observances, and Hindu festivals like Diwali. Cultural and historical identity is honored via Girmit Day and Sukuna Day. Fiji Day is a major national holiday marking both Fiji’s cession to Britain in 1874 and its independence in 1970.
Public Observances & Closures
On public holidays, government offices, schools, and financial institutions close nationwide. Businesses often suspend operations or operate limited hours. Due to the multicultural nature of Fiji, events and ceremonies for each community take place on these days. If a public holiday falls on a weekend, the government sometimes declares a compensatory Friday or Monday in place.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many public holidays does Fiji have in 2025?
Fiji has 11 officially gazetted public holidays in 2025.
What is Girmit Day in Fiji?
Girmit Day (May 12) commemorates the arrival of Indian indentured laborers to Fiji and recognizes their cultural contribution.
When is Ratu Sukuna Day, and what does it commemorate?
Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna Day is observed on May 30, honoring Sukuna—an important Fijian statesman and figure in Fijian history.
How is Diwali observed in Fiji?
Diwali, the Hindu Festival of Lights, is a public holiday in Fiji (October 21, 2025). It is celebrated by Hindus but also recognized nationally as a day of festivity across the country.
Conclusion
Public holidays in Fiji highlight the country’s rich blend of faith, cultural history, and national milestones. These observances strengthen unity while honoring Fiji’s diverse religious and social traditions.
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