Marshall Islands Public Holidays

Overview

The Marshall Islands attracts tourists and investors from all over the world with its unique geographical location, rich natural resources and profound cultural heritage. Understanding and respecting its statutory holidays is not only a manifestation of compliance with local laws and regulations, but also an important way to promote cultural exchange and understanding.

Public Holidays

New Year's Day: January 1st
Remembrance Day: March 1st (Commemorates victims of nuclear testing)
Good Friday: March 29th
Constitution Day: May 1st
Youth Day: June 7th
Fishermen's Day: First Friday in July (July 5th, 2024)
Labor Day: September 6th
Manit Day (Culture Day): Last Friday in September (September 27th, 2024)
Presidents' Day: November 17th
Gospel Day: First Friday in December (December 6th, 2024)
Christmas Day: December 25th
New Year's Eve: December 31st

Unique Public Holidays in the Marshall Islands

The Marshall Islands has several unique public holidays that reflect its rich culture and history. Here are some of the most significant ones:

National Day (Constitution Day): May 1st
This day commemorates the signing of the Marshall Islands Constitution on May 1, 1979, and the nation's official establishment as a republic in 1982. National Day is celebrated with parades, sporting events, and other festive activities.
Liberation Day: Usually celebrated on May 1st
While the exact date may vary, Liberation Day is often celebrated on the same day as National Day. It marks the liberation of the Marshall Islands by the United States during World War II.
Gospel Day: First Friday in December
This is a significant religious holiday that commemorates the introduction of Christianity to the Marshall Islands. People attend church services and gather with their families for traditional feasts.
Memorial Day: Usually celebrated on March 1st
This day is dedicated to honoring the soldiers who lost their lives in war.
Lutok Kobban Alele
This cultural festival is held on the last Friday of September, coinciding with a week-long celebration. It aims to preserve and promote Marshallese culture and features traditional dances, handicrafts, and sales.

Other Notable Celebrations:

Fisherman’s Festival: Held on the first Friday of July, this festival celebrates the importance of fishing in Marshallese culture.
Marshall Islands Cup Traditional Canoe Race: Typically held on the first weekend of May, this event features traditional canoe racing competitions.

2025 Public Holidays

New Year's Day: Wednesday, January 1st
Remembrance Day: Friday, March 1st
Good Friday: Friday, March 29th
Constitution Day: Thursday, May 1st
Youth Day: Friday, June 7th
Fishermen's Day: First Friday in July (exact date to be determined based on 2025 calendar)
Labor Day: First Friday in September (exact date to be determined based on 2025 calendar)
Cultural Festival: Last Friday in September (exact date to be determined based on 2025 calendar)
Presidents' Day: Sunday, November 17th
Gospel Day: First Friday in December (exact date to be determined based on 2025 calendar)
Christmas Day: Wednesday, December 25th
New Year's Eve: Tuesday, December 31st

Holiday Operations

Please note that freight forwarders, railways, couriers, and logistics companies may have specific holiday service arrangements. For detailed information, please refer to their official websites or contact their customer service.