Fiji has no grand nationwide festival around which to plan a visit, but there are local events that will enrich your time here. Many are Hindu festivals, whose timing changes from year to year.
February/March
Hindu Holi, nationwide. Hindus throughout Fiji often squirt each other with colored water during Hindu Holi, their Festival of Colors. February or March.
July
Bula Festival, Nadi. The town goes all out in July for its annual big bash, with parades, music, and cultural demonstrations. Mid-July.
Hindu Fire Walking, nationwide. Some Hindus engage in fire walking during soul-cleansing rituals, but unlike Fijian fire walkers, they do not perform for tourists at hotels. July or August.
August
Hibiscus Festival, Suva. The capital city's Hibiscus Festival is as close to a national festival as Fiji has. A carnival atmosphere prevails as thousands gather in Albert Park. Mid-August.
September
Sugar Festival Lautoka. Viti Levu's "Sugar City" gets into the act with its annual Sugar Festival. September.
Fiji Regatta Week, Mamanuca Islands. Cruising yachts from around the region gather at Musket Cove Island Resort in the Mamanucas for races, bikini contests, and the consumption of many thousands of Fiji Bitters. Some yachts then race to Port Vila in Vanuatu. Mid-September.
November
South Pacific World Music Festival. Regional artists converge on Savusavu for 3 days of music making. Go to www.fiji-savusavu.com for details. Early November.
Diwali Festival, nationwide. Although it's the Hindu festival of lights, every Fiji resident seems to put candles in their yards and set off fireworks during this holiday. October 30, 2008, and November 15, 2009.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
