Fiji Week is a week of festivities culminating in Fiji Day[1] on 10 October (the anniversary of Fiji's independence from British colonial rule in 1970) annually.[2] A different theme is chosen every year, but common elements include religious ceremonies and cultural performances.
Fiji Day | |
---|---|
Observed by | Fiji |
Significance | anniversary of independence in 1970 |
Date | 10 October |
Next time | 10 October 2025 |
Frequency | annual |
The preceding week to Fiji Day is called Fiji Week. Fiji Day is October 10 and that is a double anniversary for the nation. On that date in 1874, King Seru Epenisa Cakobau ceded Fiji to the United Kingdom. On the same date in 1970, Fiji regained its independence.[3]
During Fiji Week, the nation celebrates its unity and religious and cultural diversity with performances and programs each day focused on the two main ethnic cultures — Fijan and Indian. The Christian, Muslim, and Hindu religions celebrate their traditions. A different theme is chosen every year, but common elements include religious ceremonies and cultural performances.
In Fiji Week, 2004, the festivities were undermined by a boycott by several prominent politicians and other public figures, who accused the government of using the occasion to promote a political agenda.
See also
editReferences
edit- ^ Preparations Underway for Fiji Day Celebration, Fijian Broadcasting Corporation Limited, 9 October 2023, retrieved 19 March 2024
- ^ Fiji’s 51st Anniversary as a Nation Celebrated, Colombo Plan Staff College, retrieved 19 March 2024
- ^ National Day of Fiji 2023, The Diplomatic Insight, 10 October 2023, retrieved 19 March 2024