The Marshall Islands, a beautiful island nation in the central Pacific Ocean, has a rich cultural heritage and a diverse calendar of holidays and celebrations. These special days reflect the history, traditions, and values of the Marshallese people, offering opportunities for reflection, celebration, and community bonding. From New Year’s Day to Christmas Day, each holiday has its unique significance and traditions, highlighting the importance of family, community, faith, and resilience.
Whether commemorating historical events, honoring the sacrifices of the past, or celebrating cultural practices, these holidays play a crucial role in preserving the Marshallese identity and fostering a sense of unity and pride among its people.
Public Holidays in Marshall Islands In 2025
The following is the list of public holidays in Marshall Islands 2025.
| Holiday | Date | Weekday |
| New Year’s Day | Jan 01, 2025 | Wednesday |
| Remembrance Day | Jan 20, 2025 | Monday |
| Good Friday | Mar 26, 2025 | Wednesday |
| Constitution Day | Mar 31, 2025 | Monday |
| Fishermen’s Day | Apr 21, 2025 | Monday |
| Labour Day | May 01, 2025 | Sunday |
| Manit Day | May 25, 2025 | Saturday |
| President’s Day | Jun 07, 2025 | Wednesday |
| President’s Day Holiday | Jul 16, 2025 | Saturday |
| Gospel Day | Sep 06, 2025 | Friday |
| Christmas Day | Sep 12, 2025 | Sunday |
| Know more: Public Holidays in Malta In 2025 |
New Year’s Day
New Year’s Day in the Marshall Islands is a time for celebration and new beginnings. People think about the past year and make plans for the future. Families gather for feasts and parties, enjoying traditional foods and music. Children often get small gifts or money from elders. It is also a day for forgiveness, letting go of grudges, and starting fresh. Communities might have special events like dances or games to bring people together with hope for the new year.
Remembrance Day
Remembrance Day in the Marshall Islands is a solemn occasion to honor those who fought for the country’s freedom and independence. It remembers the victims of World War II and the nuclear testing from 1946 to 1958. Ceremonies are held at memorials and cemeteries with speeches, wreath-laying, and moments of silence. Survivors of the nuclear testing share their stories to remind people of the lasting effects. The day emphasizes the importance of peace and disarmament.
Good Friday
Good Friday is a major religious holiday in the Marshall Islands, marking the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. People reflect and pray, and churches hold special services. Some families fast or refrain from certain activities. It’s also a time for forgiveness and reconciliation, mending broken relationships. In some places, traditional dances or plays depicting Good Friday events are performed to honor and remember Christ’s sacrifice.
Constitution Day
Constitution Day is a patriotic holiday in the Marshall Islands, celebrating the adoption of the constitution on May 1, 1979. It honors democracy, freedom, and self-governance. There are parades, speeches, and educational events about the constitution’s history and importance. Government buildings and schools display the national flag, and communities might hold traditional dances or feasts. The day reaffirms the values of the Marshall Islands and the rights and responsibilities of its citizens.
Fishermen’s Day
Fishermen’s Day in the Marshall Islands celebrates the importance of fishing in the country’s culture and economy. Fishing has been a way of life for generations, providing food and income. Communities honor fishermen with ceremonies or blessings for their safety and success. Fishing competitions or demonstrations of traditional techniques may take place. It is also a time to promote sustainable fishing practices and conservation of marine resources.
Labor Day
Labor Day in the Marshall Islands celebrates workers and their contributions to society. It recognizes the dignity of labor and workers’ rights, like fair wages and safe conditions. Parades and rallies, often organized by labor unions, highlight the importance of workers’ rights and better working conditions. Cultural events or sports competitions bring workers together in solidarity. The day encourages young people to pursue vocational training and skilled trades.
Manit Day
Manit Day in the Marshall Islands celebrates the traditional practice of “manit,” which involves sharing and redistributing resources within communities. It honors values of generosity, cooperation, and communal living. Families and communities exchange gifts, food, and other resources to ensure everyone’s needs are met. Traditional dances, songs, and storytelling highlight manit’s role in preserving social cohesion and cultural identity. The day strengthens community bonds and fosters collective responsibility.
President’s Day
President’s Day in the Marshall Islands honors the country’s leadership and democratic institutions. Official ceremonies feature speeches by the president or government officials, highlighting achievements and goals. Parades, cultural performances, and educational activities teach about civic engagement and responsible leadership. The day reflects on the nation’s challenges and renews the commitment to address them through collective action.
President’s Day Holiday
The President’s Day Holiday in the Marshall Islands extends the celebration of President’s Day. Families gather for picnics, beach outings, or recreational activities, enjoying the extended weekend. Communities may organize additional cultural events, sports tournaments, or educational programs to promote civic engagement and national pride. The holiday strengthens social bonds and celebrates the unique culture and traditions of the Marshall Islands.
Gospel Day
Gospel Day in the Marshall Islands celebrates the arrival of Christianity and the spread of the gospel. It commemorates the work of missionaries and the adoption of Christianity by many communities. Churches hold special services with traditional hymns and dances. Some communities reenact the arrival of the first missionaries or hold parades and feasts. The day reflects on Christianity’s impact on Marshallese culture and renews faith and commitment to Christian values.
Christmas Day
Christmas Day in the Marshall Islands celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. Families gather, attend church services, and exchange gifts. Homes are decorated with traditional Marshallese decorations like woven mats and coconut frond ornaments. Special feasts feature traditional dishes. Children participate in nativity plays or caroling, and communities organize parades or concerts. The day emphasizes joy, peace, and goodwill, reflecting the values of love, generosity, and forgiveness. It also strengthens family bonds and celebrates the unique cultural traditions within the Christmas celebration.