Public Holidays in Papua New Guinea in 2025 reflect the nation’s rich cultural heritage, historical significance, and religious diversity. These special days provide citizens with opportunities to celebrate, commemorate, and reflect on important aspects of their national identity. From honoring the country’s journey to independence to observing Christian holidays, Papua New Guinea’s public holidays offer a fascinating glimpse into the nation’s values and traditions.
In 2025, these holidays will still be significant for bringing people together, boosting national pride, and giving workers and students much-needed breaks. This guide explores the significance of each public holiday, highlighting its cultural importance and how it is typically celebrated across this diverse Pacific nation.
Public Holidays in Papua New Guinea In 2025
The following is the list of public holidays in Papua New Guinea in 2025.
| Holiday | Date | Weekday |
| New Year’s Day | Jan 01, 2025 | Wednesday |
| Remembrance Day of theLate First Prime Minister | Feb 26, 2025 | Wednesday |
| Good Friday | Apr 18, 2025 | Friday |
| Holy Saturday | Apr 19, 2025 | Saturday |
| Easter Sunday | Apr 20, 2025 | Sunday |
| Easter Monday | Apr 21, 2025 | Monday |
| King’s Birthday | Jun 09, 2025 | Monday |
| National Remembrance Day | Jul 23, 2025 | Wednesday |
| Repentance Day | Aug 26, 2025 | Tuesday |
| Independence Day | Sep 16, 2025 | Tuesday |
| Christmas Day | Dec 25, 2025 | Thursday |
| Boxing Day | Dec 26, 2025 | Friday |
| Know More: Public Holidays in Panama In 2025 |
New Year’s Day
The first day of the new year in Papua New Guinea is January 1, which is New Year’s Day. It’s a time for fresh starts, resolutions, and hope for the future. Families and friends often gather to celebrate with feasts, music, and traditional dances. In urban areas, fireworks displays and countdown events are common. Many Papua New Guineans attend church services to pray for blessings in the coming year. It’s also a time for reflection on the past year and setting goals for the future. The holiday is observed nationwide, with businesses and government offices closed, allowing people to spend time with loved ones and participate in community celebrations.
Remembrance Day of the Late First Prime Minister
This day honors Sir Michael Thomas Somare, Papua New Guinea’s first Prime Minister and a key figure in the country’s independence. Known as the “Father of the Nation,” Somare led PNG to independence in 1975 and served multiple terms as Prime Minister. The day, typically observed near his birthday (April 9), is a time for reflection on PNG’s journey to nationhood and Somare’s contributions to the country’s development. Events may include memorial services, speeches by political leaders, and educational programs about PNG’s history. It’s a day to celebrate national unity and reflect on the values of leadership, democracy, and independence that Somare championed throughout his life.
Good Friday
Good Friday is a solemn Christian holiday commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. In Papua New Guinea, where Christianity is the predominant religion, it’s widely observed. Many attend church services that recount the events leading to Jesus’ death. Some communities stage passion plays or processions reenacting the Stations of the Cross. It’s a day of fasting and prayer for many believers. Businesses and government offices are typically closed. In rural areas, traditional customs may be intertwined with Christian observances. The day encourages reflection on themes of sacrifice, redemption, and spiritual renewal. It’s also a time for family gatherings and community solidarity.
Holy Saturday
Holy Saturday, the day between Good Friday and Easter Sunday, is observed in Papua New Guinea as part of the Easter celebrations. It commemorates the day Jesus’ body lay in the tomb. While less prominent than Good Friday or Easter Sunday, it’s still an important day in the Christian calendar. Many churches hold vigil services, often starting after sunset and continuing into Easter Sunday. These services may include the lighting of the Paschal candle, symbolizing Christ’s resurrection. Some families use this day for quiet reflection or preparation for Easter Sunday celebrations. In PNG’s diverse Christian communities, traditions may vary, but the day generally maintains a somber, anticipatory atmosphere before Easter’s joyous celebrations.
Easter Sunday
Easter Sunday is one of the most important Christian holidays in Papua New Guinea, celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Churches across the country hold special services, often starting at sunrise. These services are typically joyous, featuring singing, dancing, and feasting. Many people wear their best clothes or traditional attire. Families gather for meals, often featuring local delicacies. In some areas, there may be egg hunts for children, adopted from Western traditions. The day symbolizes hope, renewal, and spiritual rebirth. While primarily a religious observance, Easter Sunday also serves as a time for community bonding and cultural expression, blending Christian beliefs with local customs and traditions.
Easter Monday
In Papua New Guinea, Easter Monday, the day after Easter Sunday, is a public holiday. Its means that the Easter events go on for longer. While not holding the same religious significance as Easter Sunday, it’s an important day for family and community gatherings. Many people use this day for relaxation or outdoor activities, enjoying the cooler weather of the approaching dry season. Picnics, sports events, and beach outings are common. In some areas, traditional games or competitions may be organized. Churches might hold additional services or youth events. The holiday also provides an opportunity for those who have traveled for Easter to return home. Overall, Easter Monday serves as a leisurely conclusion to the Easter period.
King’s Birthday
The King’s Birthday holiday in Papua New Guinea honors the birthday of the reigning British monarch, who is also the country’s head of state. It reflects PNG’s status as a constitutional monarchy within the Commonwealth realms. The date may vary each year, typically set by the government. Celebrations are usually formal and ceremonial, including military parades, flag-raising ceremonies, and official receptions. While not as personally significant to many Papua New Guineans as other holidays, it serves as a reminder of the country’s historical ties to the British crown and its current constitutional arrangement. Some communities may organize local events or use the day for recreational activities.
National Remembrance Day
National Remembrance Day in Papua New Guinea, observed on July 23, honors those who died in service to the country, particularly during World War II. The date marks the first action of the Papuan Infantry Battalion against Japanese forces in 1942. Ceremonies are held nationwide, with the main event in Port Moresby featuring a dawn service, wreath-laying, and military parades. Veterans and their families participate, along with government officials and foreign diplomats. Schools often hold special assemblies to educate students about PNG’s wartime history. The day serves to foster national pride, acknowledge sacrifices made for the country, and promote unity among PNG’s diverse peoples.
Repentance Day
Repentance Day, usually observed on August 26, is a unique public holiday in Papua New Guinea, reflecting the country’s strong Christian influence. Established in 2011, it’s a day for national prayer and reflection on moral and spiritual values. Many attend church services or prayer gatherings. Some communities organize fasting or charitable activities. The day encourages individuals and the nation as a whole to reflect on past mistakes, seek forgiveness, and commit to positive change. While primarily religious, it also serves as a time for promoting national unity, ethical governance, and social responsibility. Government offices and many businesses close to allow for full participation.
Independence Day
Independence Day, celebrated on September 16, marks Papua New Guinea’s independence from the Australian administration in 1975. It’s one of the most important national holidays, celebrated with great enthusiasm across the country. The day features flag-raising ceremonies, parades, cultural performances, and speeches by political leaders. Many people wear traditional dress or clothing in the national colors. Sports events, music festivals, and fireworks displays are common. In villages, feasts and traditional dances may be organized. The holiday celebrates PNG’s cultural diversity, national identity, and progress as a sovereign nation. It’s a time to reflect on the country’s achievements and challenges since independence.
Christmas Day
Christmas Day, December 25, is widely celebrated in Papua New Guinea, reflecting the country’s predominantly Christian population. People observe sacred holidays, gather with their families, and enjoy themselves in commemoration of the birth of Jesus Christ. Families come together for meals, gift-giving, and sharing of traditional foods. In urban areas, homes and public spaces may be decorated with lights and Christmas trees. Some communities organize carols by candlelight or other festive events. While maintaining its religious significance, Christmas in PNG also incorporates local customs and traditions, making it a unique cultural experience.
Boxing Day
Boxing Day, observed on December 26, extends the Christmas celebrations in Papua New Guinea. Historically associated with giving gifts or “Christmas boxes” to servants and people experiencing poverty, it has evolved into a day of relaxation and social activities. Many families continue their Christmas gatherings, often with outdoor picnics or beach outings. It’s also a popular day for sports events, particularly cricket matches. In urban areas, post-Christmas sales attract shoppers. Some churches organize charitable events or community service activities, reflecting the holiday’s original spirit of giving. For many Papua New Guineans, Boxing Day provides a welcome opportunity to unwind and enjoy time with family and friends after the bustle of Christmas Day.