Family Day in Vanuatu

Family Day is observed in Vanuatu on the 26th of December, and it is a time for people to give thanks for their families, spend time with them, and participate in religious or community events.

Vanuatu is a nation in the South Pacific Ocean that is composed of approximately 80 islands stretching over a distance of 1,300 kilometers. These islands are known for their coral reefs, underground caverns, and WWII-era wrecks.

The indigenous population is Melanesian, but there are also small minorities of Chinese, Micronesian, European, and Vietnamese people. As a result, typical Family Day meals may vary, but they usually include seafood, taro, yam, banana, and coconut.

The History of Family Day in Vanuatu

Unfortunately, at this time, we are unable to uncover who invented Family Day in Vanuatu or when it was established. We suspect that it was modeled after the Boxing Day celebrations that occur in other countries around the world, but at this time, we can neither confirm nor deny that speculation. We will keep looking for the origins of this holiday, however.

Important Facts About Vanuatu

To shine a spotlight on the South Pacific Ocean nation, we thought we would list some of the things we have recently learned about it. We hope that the following facts prove to be quite useful for anyone reading about Family Day in Vanuatu.

  • Only about 65 of Vanuatu’s 80 islands are inhabited.
  • Port Vila is the largest city and the capital of Vanuatu.
  • The vast majority of the people living in Vanuatu are Christian.
  • Bislama, French, and English are the official languages of Vanuatu.

Observing Family Day in Vanuatu

Since this is a public holiday, many businesses are closed, and it is a day off for the general population. This allows people to attend public and private religious events, spend time with their families, and enjoy festive meals such as Bircher Muesli, Coconut Crab, Poulet Fish, Flying Fox, Baked Fish in Coconut Cream, and other festive dishes.

Where is it celebrated?
Vanuatu (Public holiday)
When is it?
This year (2024)
December 26 Thursday
Next year (2025)
December 26 Friday
Last year (2023)
December 26 Tuesday