Learn about the history and significance of Fiji Independence Day, which marks the end of colonial rule and the formation of an independent nation in 1970. Find out how Fijians celebrate this day with cultural dances, festivals, parades, and sports, and read some quotes and poems related to Fiji. Fiji Day is October 10 and that is a double anniversary for the nation. On that date in 1874, King Seru Epenisa Cakobau ceded Fiji to the United Kingdom. On the same date in 1970, Fiji regained its independence. [3] Fiji’s Independence Day, celebrated on October 10, marks a significant milestone in the nation’s history, commemorating its liberation from British colonial rule in 1970. While opening the 2019/2020 session of Parliament in November last year, President Jioji Konrote had said marking 50 years of independence would mark a defining day in Fiji’s history. “Given the great expectations every Fijian holds for that moment, it would be a shame to only limit our celebrations to a single day, week or even a month Fiji Day marks the independence of Fiji from British colonial rule on October 10th. Learn about the significance, milestones, and festivities of this national holiday, such as the Kava ceremony, Meke performances, and community feasts. It commemorates the date on which Fiji became a British colony in 1874. The holiday is also known as “Independence Day”, as it marks the day on which Fiji gained independence from Britain in 1970. Fiji Day is a public holiday in the Republic of Fiji, commemorating the country’s independence from the United Kingdom on 10 October 1970. It is also celebrated in Fiji’s former colonial centres, such as Auckland and Sydney. Fiji celebrated its 54th Independence Day in 2024, marking over five decades since gaining sovereignty from British colonial rule on October 10, 1970. The Pacific island nation has navigated a complex path, with its cultural diversity, natural beauty, and strategic location setting it apart on the global stage. Fiji’s Independence Day is a momentous occasion that marks the nation’s liberation from colonial rule and the establishment of its own identity. This article explores the significance of this Celebrating Fijian Independence Day offers a vibrant glimpse into the rich tapestry of Fiji’s culture, particularly through its renowned cultural performances and religious ceremonies. This festive occasion not only marks a significant historical milestone but also showcases the diverse traditions that are deeply rooted in Fijian society. In New Zealand, the Fijian community takes pride in Learn about the significance of Fiji's Independence Day, which marks 53 years of freedom from British colonial rule. Discover how Fijians celebrate their national pride and heritage with cultural events, ceremonies, and community gatherings. This video captures Charles, Prince of Wales handing over the Constitutional Instruments of Independence of Fiji to the late Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara, Fiji's f ← Go to all Speeches; National Address - Fiji Day 2010. October 10, 2010 Government House, Suva. Greetings to you all, Ni Sa Bula Vinaka, Namaste. Today we celebrate a milestone in our history - the 40th anniversary of independence of our nation; a nation all of our forebears helped to build. The 81-year-old says he was a teenager in Suva when Fiji gained its independence and was at Albert Park on the day our new flag was raised. He, however, believes this will be his last celebration. Fiji, a picturesque archipelago in the South Pacific, celebrates its Independence Day with pride and joy. The day signifies the nation’s sovereignty and independence from British colonial Learn more about the Independence Day in Fiji to commemorate the national freedom struggle, the Fijian history, significance, and much more with WorldRemit. When is Fiji Day? Fiji Day is the National Day of Fiji and is celebrated on 10 October. If 10 October falls on a weekend, the holiday may be moved to a weekday. Fiji Day marks the anniversary of both Fiji's cession to the United Kingdom in 1874 and its attainment of independence in 1970. History of Fiji Day Despite “race riots” during by-elections in 1968, independence was achieved in a spirit of cooperation on October 10, 1970, the 96th anniversary of cession. Independent Fiji. From independence until April 1987, Fiji was governed by the Alliance Party, which was pledged to policies of “multiracialism.” Fiji Day commemorates two key events in the island nation’s history, the ceding of Fiji to the United Kingdom in 1874 and Fiji gaining independence in 1970. Although the Dutch explorer Abel Tasman was the first European to explore the archipelago in 1643, the British colonial government took control of Fiji on October 10, 1874. Fiji became an independent sovereign state on 10th October 1970 when its colonial status was abrogated. Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara, the first Prime Minister of independent Fiji, received from Prince Charles the documents evidencing Fiji’s independence. That independence was and remains a great source of pride and joy to all Fiji citizens. On that day the dark clouds of colonialism were swept
Articles and news, personal stories, interviews with experts.
Photos from events, contest for the best costume, videos from master classes.
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | ![]() |