What is Fiji Day? It is a day of celebration for the entire country! It is a symbol of national pride, unity and hope for a brighter future!
Fiji’s Independence Day is 10 October and it marks to monumental occasions.
The first is Fiji’s independence from British colonial rule in 1970. This is the day that Fijians raised their flag for the first time. It is a day of national pride, unity, and reflection on Fiji’s journey as an independent nation.
The second milestone which presents an interesting twist is that this day also marks the day when Fiji was formally ceded to Britain in 1874. The Deed of cession was signed on 10 October.
So, two major turning points: one that started with British rule, and one that ended it.
How do Fijians Celebrate Their Independence?
Each island hosts a celebration for the both the locals and tourists. The celebration will follow a similar program across the country.
This celebration started with a welcome speech and prayer. Then they do the honored raising of the Fijian flag. At Castaway resort they then sung of the National Anthem.
Locals will participate in a multi-cultural fashion parade, traditional dances, singing, parades, games, and feasts.
The fashion parade represents the various cultures found in Fiji which are sponsored by different departments within the resort.
The indigenous Fijians start the parade followed by Kiribati Banabans, Somoans, Wallis, Chinese, Europeans, Tuvaluans, and Indo-Fijians. Each group displayed their unique dress and dance.
Fiji Games
Everyone enjoyed participating in several games. Four teams of 10 people each competing in:
- Sack relays
- Tug of War
- Walk the Plank
- Cup O’ Water relay
Each ceremony ends with awards, recognitions, and an enormous Fiji cake.
Fiji’s National Anthem
Blessing grant, oh God of nations, on the isles of Fiji.
As we stand united under noble banner blue. And we honor and defend the cause of freedom ever, onward march together, God Bless Fiji.
CHORUS
For Fiji, ever Fiji, let our voices ring with pride,
For Fiji, ever Fiji, her name hail far and wide,
A land of freedom, hope and glory to endure whate’er befall
May God bless Fiji, forevermore!
Blessing grant, oh God of nations, on the isles of Fiji,
Shores golden sand and sunshine, happiness and song.
Stand united, we of Fiji, fame and glory ever, onward march together, God bless Fiji.
Our blog posts run 6-8 weeks behind actual live events.
We celebrated Fiji day on 10 October at Castaway Resort on Qalito Island.
Did you miss our adventures on Qalito Island in our last blog post?
