The Ultimate Guide to Celebrations, Festivals and Events in Fiji
Written by Real Travellers, Not Algorithms
You might think of Fiji as some idyllic paradise islands with warm weather. That’s true, but the melting pot of cultures is home to some of the largest festivals in the South Pacific. Fijians love a reason to celebrate, whether it’s the Indian influences of Hindu festivals or the special events that come along with the Christian religion. Fiji also represents the South Pacific when it comes to international music festivals, whether it be Your Paradise or something else. Sports events, like surf competitions, occur on and off, so that’s why such non-annual events don’t make it to this list of the biggest events in Fiji. Regardless, keep an eye out for them and check out these Fiji events that happen every year!
Side note: Our tips are from travel writers who have genuinely visited Fiji, not copied or generated by AI. Scroll to the bottom of the page to learn more about us!
Table of Contents
Public Holidays in Fiji
Here is a list of all of the public holidays in Fiji:
| 📅 Public Holiday | 🗓️ Date |
|---|---|
| 🎉 New Year’s Day | January 1 |
| ✝️ Good Friday | Friday before Easter |
| ✝️ Easter Saturday | Saturday before Easter |
| ✝️ Easter Monday | Monday after Easter |
| 🛕 Girmit Day | Closest Monday to May 14 |
| 🏛️ Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna Day | Last Monday/Friday of May |
| 🕌 Prophet Mohammed’s Birthday | Monday during Rabi’ al-awwal |
| 🇫🇯 Fiji Day | October 10 |
| 🪔 Diwali | Friday closest to Diwali |
| 🎄 Christmas Day | December 25 |
| 📦 Boxing Day | December 26 |
Where a public holiday falls on a Sunday (and sometimes a Saturday), the office holiday will be observed on the following Monday or the previous Friday. Learn more about these dates in the Public Holidays in Fiji (& Other Important Dates).
© FijiPocketGuide.comJanuary Events
The main event in January is the New Year.
Public Holidays in January
- January 1 – New Year’s Day
Note that if a public holiday falls on a Sunday (and sometimes a Saturday), the office holiday will be observed on the following Monday or the previous Friday. For more information about these dates in the Public Holidays in Fiji (& Other Important Dates).
New Year’s Celebrations
Kick off the New Year much like anywhere in the world with fireworks displays and parties in Suva and Nadi between 31 December and 1 January, as well as special dinner events and entertainment at resorts. More cultural traditions can be experienced in Fiji’s villages. See how to experience this public holiday for yourself with our Fiji New Year Ideas.
What is the weather like in January? Find out in our guide, Fiji Weather in January.
© FijiPocketGuide.comFebruary and March Events
The weather is usually heavily humid this time of year – not great for events – but if you’re into the arts or vibrant colour, you won’t be disappointed…
Fiji Fringe Festival
The Fiji Fringe Festival is an annual event that celebrates the arts and culture of Fiji. It was first held in 2013 and has since become a significant fixture on the cultural calendar. The festival typically takes place over several days in Suva, showcasing a wide range of artistic expressions, including theatre, dance, music, and visual arts. Look out for the Fiji Fringe Festival for the year over at the Fiji Tourism’s events page.
Holi
This one is a little messy but undoubtedly a lot of fun. Holi is the “Festival of Colours”, influenced by India to celebrate the Hindu Indo-Fijians of Fiji. Large crowds gather together, mainly in the large centres of Suva, Nadi, Lautoka, Savusavu, etc., to throw coloured powders, signifying relationship reconciliations, forgiving and forgetting.
Fiji Rugby Season
The Rugby Season kicks off in February with local teams competing across Fiji. If you would like to catch a game of rugby, February, March and April are the best times for it. Look out for events like the Skipper Cup, taking place between February and April.
What is the weather like in February and March? Find out in our guides, Fiji Weather in February and Fiji Weather in March.
© FijiPocketGuide.comApril Events
April is a special time for the significant population of Christians in Fiji. There are three public holidays dedicated to the Easter weekend.
Public Holidays in April
- Friday before Easter – Good Friday
- Saturday before Easter – Easter Saturday
- Monday after Easter – Easter Monday
The Fijian Crosswalk
While there are many ways that Fijians commemorate Easter, the most visible tradition is The Fijian Crosswalk. During Holy Week, the week just before Easter, large crowds gather in Fiji’s capital city, Suva, to walk 194 km (120 mi) to Nadi. The walk symbolises Christ’s final walk to Jerusalem, where participants carry a large wooden cross the whole way.
Easter
Easter most commonly falls in April and is celebrated with enthusiasm with events organised by Fiji’s churches. Learn more about how to experience Easter in The Guide to Easter in Fiji.
What is the weather like in April? Find out in our guide, Fiji Weather in April.
© FijiPocketGuide.comMay Events
May in Fiji brings a vibrant mix of cultural celebrations, musical awards, and public holidays that showcase the island nation’s rich heritage and thriving arts scene.
Public Holidays in May
- Closest Monday to May 14 – Girmit Day
- Last Monday/Friday of May – Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna Day
Girmit Day
Girmit Day in Fiji, observed on May 14, but the public holiday is the closest Monday to that date, commemorates the arrival of Indian indentured labourers to Fiji in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It honours their contributions and sacrifices, marking the end of the indenture system that significantly shaped Fiji’s demographic and cultural landscape. We’ve found that this day holds a special place in the hearts of many Fijians. Learn more about Fiji’s multicultural population in our guide, Who are the People of Fiji? Population, Ethnicities & More.
Girmit Carnival
In relation to Girmit Day, the Girmit Carvinal is a week-long carnival that celebrates the contributions made by the Girmititas from Indians who arrived in Fiji in 1879. This festival has taken place in Nausori (near Suva) for past celebrations.
FIPRA Music Awards
The FIPRA Music Awards, organised by the Fiji Performing Rights Association (FPRA), occurs annually in May. The awards celebrate the achievements of Fijian musicians across various genres and categories. Each year, artists compete for recognition in multiple categories, showcasing their talent and contributions to the music industry in Fiji. The event typically features performances and culminates in a ceremony where winners are announced, making it a significant occasion for both artists and fans alike. You’re most likely to catch this event in Suva.
Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna Day
Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna Day is a public holiday in Fiji, celebrating the life and achievements of Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna, Fiji’s first modern statesman and a key figure in the country’s history. It is observed annually on the last Monday (or sometimes Friday) of May, honouring his contributions to Fijian society and governance. From what we’ve experienced, this day is a wonderful opportunity to learn about and appreciate Fijian culture and history.
What is the weather like in May? Find out in our guide, Fiji Weather in May.
© FijiPocketGuide.comJune and July Events
Discover the vibrant events of June and July in Fiji, where the dry season sets the perfect backdrop for exciting festivals and cultural celebrations.
Bula Festival
This festival usually takes place in Nadi in July. It features live entertainment, marching bands, a Pacific dancing contest, Bollywood nights, and a beauty pageant. The festival aims to raise funds for charitable work while providing entertainment for locals and visitors alike. See more events with a festival-like atmosphere in the 10 Best Festivals in Fiji.
South Indian Fire Walking Festival
Firewalking is a tradition stemming from both Fijian and Indian cultures but is celebrated more so today by the local Indo-Fijians. The biggest celebration of the South Indian Fire Walking Festival occurs at the Mariamman Temple in Suva. Firewalking is just as crazy as it sounds: walking on hot embers or coals barefoot. Participants will enter 10 days of abstinence and meditation on the lead up to the event, then on the day of the fire walk, a Hindu priest will pierce the face and body with skewers. It is said that if participants are devoted to the Divine Mother, they should not feel pain. Note that this event can occur in late July or early August.
What is the weather like in June and July? Find out in our guides, Fiji Weather in June and Fiji Weather in July.
© FijiPocketGuide.comAugust Events
Fiji’s vibrant August calendar is packed with exciting events, from cultural festivals to world-class surfing competitions, offering something for every traveller.
Hibiscus Festival
The Hibiscus Festival is a large celebration held in Suva. The family-friendly event has something for everyone, with live music, dance performances, rides, competitions and parades. The main event of the Hibiscus Festival is when “Miss Hibiscus” is crowned in the beauty pageant. Check out Fiji Tourism‘s events page for the upcoming date.
Friendly North Festival
One of the biggest celebrations on the Vanua Levu events calendar is the Friendly North Festival. Set up to promote Fiji’s lesser-frequented large island, the week-long Friendly North Festival celebrates with a Bollywood Night, Pacific Night, stalls, performances and the crowning of “Queen of the North”. The festival in Labasa has been attracting crowds of Indo-Fijian, Fiji and tourists for more than 40 years. The festival is usually held in August, but check out Fiji Tourism‘s events page for the upcoming date.
World Surf League
The World Surf League (WSL) in Fiji is renowned for hosting prestigious surfing competitions, particularly at the iconic Cloudbreak, located off Tavarua Island. The WSL Championship Tour returns to Fiji in August once every few years. Cloudbreak is celebrated for its powerful left-hand barrels, offering a challenging environment for the world’s top surfers.
What is the weather like in August? Find out in our guide, Fiji Weather in August.
© FijiPocketGuide.comSeptember Events
From sugar festivals to yacht regattas and international music extravaganzas, September in Fiji offers a diverse range of exciting events for visitors to enjoy.
Lautoka Sugar Festival
Aptly held in Fiji’s “Capital of Sugar”, the Lautoka Sugar Festival is a lively annual event with a big Indo-Fijian influence. Expect a booming atmosphere with Bollywood hits, amazing food stalls, activities and performances throughout the day. In true Indo-Fijian style, there is also a beauty pageant to crown Lady Sugar, Mr Sugar King, Miss Sugar Teens and Miss Sugar Princess.
Fiji Regatta Week
Taking place in the Mamanuca Islands, typically at Musket Cove Island Resort, this event attracts cruising yachts from around the region. It includes sailing races, social events like bikini contests, and plenty of Fiji Bitter consumption. Check out more yachty events in The Sailing Guide to Fiji.
Stir It Up Festival
The Stir It Up Festival is Fiji’s biggest international music extravaganza, and it has quickly become one of the country’s most anticipated celebrations. This one-day event showcases a diverse lineup of both local and international artists, featuring an exciting mix of musical genres. Previously held at the VOU Hub in Nadi, the festival has been gaining popularity since its debut in 2022. The festival is usually held in September, but check out Fiji Tourism‘s events page for the upcoming date.
What is the weather like in September? Find out in our guide, Fiji Weather in September.
© FijiPocketGuide.comOctober Events
October is a time to experience some of Fiji’s most unique events and festivals!
Public Holidays in October
- October 10 – Fiji Day
Note that where a public holiday falls on a Sunday (and sometimes a Saturday), the office holiday will be observed on the following Monday or the previous Friday. For specific dates for the current year, take a look at The Fijian Government website.
Fiji Week & Fiji Day
Marking the country’s independence from British colonial rule, Fiji Week is a week-long affair celebrating the diversity and union of the Fijian and Indo-Fijian cultures. Each town and city has its own way of celebrating, from entertainment programs, including performances to speeches. Ask at your accommodation what Fiji Week events are happening near you. Fiji Day is also seen as a public holiday. Find out more about public holidays in our guide to Public Holidays in Fiji (& Other Important Dates).
Balolo Rising
A natural phenomenon that you can almost set your clock by, Balolo Rise is when the palola viridis reef worm performs its annual ritual of rising from the coral to the water’s surface to spawn – typically once in October or once in November or both! As the blue-green palolo reef worm rises off Fiji’s shores, locals gather with lanterns on the beaches to scoop this delicacy up!
Your Paradise
Your Paradise is an annual event that’s become a bit of a sensation in Fiji. Established in 2014, this music and travel festival is the perfect blend of top-notch electronic tunes and island adventures on the beautiful Mamanuca Islands. This festival has quickly become a must-attend event on the global music calendar, offering a unique experience that combines world-class beats with unforgettable island activities. Although usually held on Malolo Lailai Island in October, check out Fiji Tourism‘s events page for the upcoming date.
What is the weather like in October? Find out in our guide, Fiji Weather in October.
© FijiPocketGuide.comNovember Events
Experience the vibrant Festival of Lights and exciting ocean swimming events in November as Fiji lights up with cultural celebrations and sporting adventures.
Public Holidays in October
- Friday closest to Diwali – Diwali
Diwali
Diwali is one of the most popular festivals in Fiji celebrated among families. Indo-Fijians celebrate Diwali, The Festival of Lights, in their homes, inviting family and friends for exchanging sweets and gifts. While in Fiji during the Diwali period, you’ll notice lavish decorations from the city centres to inside your resort. If you want to experience Diwali for yourself, the best thing you can do is book a homestay with an Indo-Fijian family during this time.
Ocean Swim Fiji
Ocean Swim Fiji typically features various swimming distances, including 1 km and 3 km options, and attracts participants from around the world. The event is designed to promote open water swimming and provides a fun and engaging experience for both swimmers and supporters. The month this event occurs can change from year to year, so check out Fiji Tourism‘s events page for the upcoming date.
What is the weather like in November? Find out in our guide, Fiji Weather in November.
© FijiPocketGuide.comDecember Events
The festive season is also one of the most lively months of the event calendar! Book your flight early for this popular time to be in Fiji.
Public Holidays in December
- December 25 – Christmas Day
- December 26 – Boxing Day.
Christmas
An important Christian holiday, Christmas (25 December) is celebrated in Fiji and Boxing Day (26 December) is also observed as a public holiday. Look out for events at resorts, while Fijian villages come alive with Christmas choirs. Learn more about Christmas in our guide, Fiji Christmas Ideas: How to Spend Christmas in Fiji.
Fara
Those lucky enough to make it to the isolated island of Rotuma in December will get to witness the celebrations of Fara! Rotuma has its own distinct culture compared to the other islands of Fiji, where local performers go from house to house to entertain families around the island. It’s common for other families to join in on the celebrations as the performers go until there are huge groups of singers and dancers.
What is the weather like in December? Find out in our guide, Fiji Weather in December.

More About Festivals and Events in Fiji
That’s it for our guide to festivals and events in Fiji; for more information about Fijian culture, celebrations, and traditions, check out the following articles:
- What Does Fiji Time Mean? (& What You Need to Know About It)
- 10 Reasons to Travel in the Low Season in Fiji
- 10 Best Festivals in Fiji
Finally, if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in our Where to Spend New Year’s Eve in Fiji.
Sources:
The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across Fiji and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:
- Tourism Fiji (General travel advice - Updated [2025])
- Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association (Tourism trade association - Updated [2025])
- SPTO (Pacific tourism advice - Updated [2025])
- Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation (Tourism statistics - Updated [2025])
- Land Transport Authority (Road safety advice - Updated [2025])
- Fiji Immigration (Visa and immigration advice - Updated [2025])
- Fiji Revenue & Customs Service (Customs and visitor taxes - Updated [2025])
- Biosecurity Authority of Fiji (Biosecurity advice - Updated [2025])
- Fiji Meteorological Service (Weather forecast and warnings - Updated [2025])
- Fiji Bureau of Statistics (Statistics and travel data - Updated [2025])
- Safe Travel (New Zealand travel advisory for Fiji - Updated [2025])
- Smart Traveller (Australia travel advisory for Fiji - Updated [2025])
- Travel.State.Gov (U.S. travel advisory for Fiji - Updated [2025])
Our editorial standards: At Fiji Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About The Author
Laura (Lora) S.
This article was reviewed and published by Laura, editor in chief and co-founder of Fiji Pocket Guide. Since arriving solo in the South Pacific over 10 years ago with nothing but a backpack and a background in journalism, her mission has been to show the world how easy (and awesome) it is to explore a paradise such as Fiji. She knows the islands inside-out and loves sharing tips on how best to experience Fiji’s must-dos and hidden gems. Laura is also editor of several other South Pacific travel guides.









