Public Holidays in Papua New Guinea 2025
Papua New Guinea observes a series of national public holidays under the Public Holidays Act, along with religious (Christian) observances such as Easter. When a holiday falls on a Sunday, the next weekday is often declared a holiday.
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Public Holidays in Papua New Guinea 2025
| Date | Weekday | Holiday | Notes / Observance |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 1 | Wednesday | New Year’s Day | Fixed holiday |
| February 26 | Wednesday | National Remembrance Day (Sir Michael Somare) | In memory of PNG’s first Prime Minister |
| April 18 | Friday | Good Friday | Christian observance |
| April 19 | Saturday | Holy Saturday | Religious observance |
| April 20 | Sunday | Easter Sunday | Christian observance |
| April 21 | Monday | Easter Monday | Observed holiday after Easter Sunday |
| June 17 | Tuesday | King’s Birthday | Birthday of the King (PNG is a Commonwealth realm) |
| July 23 | Wednesday | National Remembrance Day | Another remembrance observance |
| August 26 | Tuesday | National Day of Repentance | Day of prayer / reflection |
| September 15 | Monday | Independence Day Holiday | Observed holiday ahead of Independence Day |
| September 16 | Tuesday | Independence Day | PNG’s independence from Australia in 1975 |
| September 17 | Wednesday | Independence Day Holiday | Continued observance day |
| December 25 | Thursday | Christmas Day | Christian / public holiday |
| December 26 | Friday | Boxing Day | Public holiday following Christmas |
Notes & Observations
- Public holidays in PNG are governed by the Public Holidays Act 1953, Chapter 321.
- If a public holiday falls on a Sunday, the next working day is usually declared a public holiday.
- The Easter period in PNG is typically observed as multiple consecutive holidays: Good Friday through Easter Monday.
- PNG is a member of the Commonwealth and thus observes the King’s Birthday as a public holiday.
- The holidays National Remembrance Day, National Day of Repentance, and dual Independence Day observance reflect national and cultural traditions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many public holidays are there in PNG in 2025?
Papua New Guinea has about 14 national public holidays in 2025 (excluding seasonal observances).
Does PNG observe a substitute day if a holiday falls on Sunday?
Yes — under PNG law, when a public holiday falls on Sunday, the next working day is declared a holiday.
Why are there multiple Independence Day holidays?
In 2025, PNG has a three-day observance around 16 September: a holiday the day before, the actual Independence Day, and the day after. This is intended to extend national celebrations.
Is the King’s Birthday a public holiday in PNG?
Yes — PNG, being a Commonwealth realm, observes the King’s Birthday. In 2025, it falls on 17 June.
Conclusion
Public holidays in Papua New Guinea reflect the country’s Christian traditions, national history, and cultural observances. From Easter and Christmas to Remembrance Days and Independence, these holidays structure civic life. Always check the latest government gazette for possible changes or additions near the date.
