American Samoa Flag Day in American Samoa

A public holiday under local law

American Samoa’s code lists April 17 as American Samoa Flag Day, making it a public holiday in the territory.[1] A related government regulation designates Flag Day as a paid holiday for agency employees.[2]

For government employees whose regular workweek runs Monday through Friday, a Saturday holiday is observed on the preceding Friday and a Sunday holiday on the following Monday. Employees with other work schedules observe the holiday on their workday or, when it falls on a day off, on their first workday afterward.[3]

What Flag Day commemorates

American Samoa Flag Day commemorates the 1900 cession of Tutuila to the United States. On April 17, 1900, the American flag was raised on Tutuila, declaring U.S. sovereignty over Tutuila and Aunuʻu. The anniversary recalls a specific chapter in American Samoa’s political history and its relationship with the United States.[4]

Ceremonies and community events

Flag Day is observed through public events that can extend over several days. The 2024 celebration included performances and parades by local schools and villages, as well as a traditional ʻava ceremony. An ʻava ceremony was also part of the 124th Flag Day celebration. These examples show how civic commemoration and Samoan cultural practice come together; event schedules can vary from year to year.[4][5]

Planning around the holiday

The law confirms public holiday status and paid leave for government agency employees. Check directly with private shops, banks or transport providers for their hours. For government services, look for notices from the relevant office about its operational arrangements.[2]