Fiji Day in Fiji

A public holiday in Fiji

Fiji Day is listed among Fiji’s public holidays and is observed on 10 October. The Employment Relations Promulgation names Fiji Day as a public holiday to be kept in all workplaces. It provides for workers to receive pay for the hours they would normally work on a public holiday, subject to the conditions in the law.[1][3]

The law also allows the Minister, by notice in the Gazette, to approve another celebration day when a listed public holiday falls on a day other than Monday. Check Fiji’s official announcements for any change to the observed date.[3]

Independence and nationhood

Fiji became independent on 10 October 1970. The Prime Minister’s national statement recalls the independence ceremony in Suva, where the instruments of independence were handed to Fiji’s first prime minister and the national flag was raised. The date marks Fiji’s entry as an independent state and the beginning of its journey of self-determination.[2]

Official Fiji Day messages connect the anniversary with reflection on citizenship, unity and the country’s direction. In his 2025 statement, the Prime Minister described Fiji’s diversity and shared determination as part of its national strength.[2]

How the day is marked

Fiji Day observances have included official ceremonies, flag raising and public gatherings. A 2014 government account described a Suva parade at Albert Park, celebrations in Labasa and Lautoka, and a re-enactment of the ceding of Fiji in Levuka. These are examples from that year, rather than a guaranteed programme for every Fiji Day.[4]

A government report on the 2022 anniversary described a gathering at Churchill Park in Lautoka, with a parade involving students, civil servants and community members, inspected by the President. It shows that public events can take place outside Suva as well as in the capital.[5]

Planning around Fiji Day

Fiji Day is a public holiday in Fiji, and workplace arrangements may differ from an ordinary working day.[1][3]