Tuvalu Day
Tuvalu Day is a public and national holiday in the independent island nation that’s located within the British Commonwealth. Observed on October 1st (and extended as a public holiday to 2nd October), this holiday was recognized by the Tuvaluan Order of 1975 which recognized Tuvalu as a separate British dependency with its own government.
Tuvalu (Public holiday)This holiday is observed as any Independence Day would be observed. It presents days off for the general population, and many government offices, schools, and businesses are closed. There are parades, festivals, and other cultural events all across the country. It’s time for people to take pride in their country.
The History Of Tuvalu Day
Tuvalu is a group of nine islands in the South Pacific that was first settled by Polynesian peoples approximately 3,000 years ago. During the 19th century, Tuvalu began to be colonized by the British Empire. They were known as the Ellice Island and in October of 1892, they were declared a British Protectorate.
It would remain under colonial rule until 1976. In 1974, a referendum was held to decide whether Ellice Island should remain a colony of Great Britain or whether it should be independent. The result of this referendum was a separation of the colony.
In 1975 and 1976, respectively, Tuvalu was given its own legislature and its own administrative units. It would become a fully independent state located within the British Commonwealth on October 1st, 1978.
Observing Tuvalu Day
The general population takes the days off and many different activities are held on this day. In the capital city of Funafuti, there’s always an official flag-raising ceremony and this is followed by a parade.
In this parade are civil service workers, firefighters, and school children. There are also smaller events held all across the country that feature sports, music, and dancing.
Tuvalu (Public holiday)
