Fiji Day is the ultimate celebration of Fijian pride, marking the country’s independence from British colonial rule on October 10, 1970. Every year, it’s a day filled with joy, culture, and unforgettable experiences—and here at Plantation Island Resort, we take it to the next level! For many of our return guests, Fiji Day is their absolute favourite time to be on the island. The energy is contagious, and the resort comes alive with laughter, friendly competition, delicious food, and plenty of memorable moments. Our staff are even happier than usual, and trust us, that’s saying something! It’s a day where everyone—guests, locals, and staff—comes together for one giant island party.
A Formal Start to a Week of Fun
Fiji Day at Plantation Island Resort begins with a beautiful and meaningful ceremony that sets the tone for the festivities. This formal gathering is a celebration of Fijian pride and unity, bringing guests, locals, and staff together to reflect on the island’s rich history and traditions. From the raising of the Fijian flag to a touching speech honouring the nation’s independence, the ceremony is a deeply moving way to begin the day.
Once the formalities are complete, the celebrations swing into full gear! While October 10th is the official day, at Plantation Island Resort, we often extend the fun for an entire week, packing in a wide array of activities that keep everyone entertained. The entire island transforms into a buzzing hub of festivities, with something for everyone to enjoy.
Traditional Ceremonies, Dancing, and Feasts!
After the ceremony, it’s time to dive headfirst into Fijian culture! One of the most iconic experiences on Fiji Day is the kava ceremony. Guests are invited to join in this time-honoured ritual, where they’ll share the traditional drink made from the root of the kava plant. Drinking kava is a symbol of respect, friendship, and community, so it’s the perfect way to kick off the celebrations.
Next, prepare to be mesmerized by the meke performances. These traditional dances are a form of storytelling, passed down through generations, and performed with graceful movements, rhythmic chanting, and vibrant costumes. Watching a meke is like taking a journey through Fijian history and culture, and it’s one of the most beautiful parts of Fiji Day at the resort.
But the fun doesn’t stop there! Fiji Day is all about bringing people together, and what better way to do that than with food? Our special lovo feast is a highlight of the day. The food is cooked underground in an earth oven, and the result is smoky, tender meats, fresh vegetables, and tropical fruits that are bursting with flavor. And yes, we always make sure there are delicious Fiji Day cakes for everyone to enjoy!
Let the Games Begin: Tug of War, Conga Lines, and Rugby!
Fiji Day at Plantation Island Resort isn’t just about tradition—it’s about having a blast! After indulging in the lovo feast, the island lights up with fun and games. One of the most anticipated events is the tug of war, a friendly battle between Aussies and Kiwis that gets the whole crowd cheering. It’s a favourite every year, and whether you’re pulling for your team or cheering from the sidelines, it’s impossible not to get swept up in the excitement.
And don’t be surprised if you find yourself joining a conga line at the buffet! Laughter and light-hearted fun are the name of the game, and our staff make sure there’s never a dull moment. But the biggest and most anticipated event of the day? Rugby! It’s Fiji’s favourite sport, and Fiji Day wouldn’t be complete without a friendly rugby match on the beach. Guests and staff come together for an exhilarating game that’s all about camaraderie and celebration—no matter who wins.
A Special Honour: PIR Chief Guests
One of the most heartwarming traditions of Fiji Day at Plantation Island Resort is the selection of PIR Chief Guests. Each year, a few of our long-time returning guests are honoured with this special title. Being chosen as the chief guest is a recognition of loyalty and connection to the island, and it’s a role that comes with great pride. The chief guests lead the celebrations, are part of the formalities, and are given the best seats for the rugby match! It’s truly a day that those selected will never forget.
Renae, the admin of the popular ‘We Love Plantation’ Facebook group, has been to Plantation Island Resort many times and had this to say about her Fiji Day experience: “We were so blessed to be part of the Fiji Day celebrations. We had no idea we were going to be honoured as chief guests for the morning celebrations. We loved every minute of it (maybe not the 2 minutes I had to say a speech, haha). The whole day was amazing. We honestly had the best day. Justin, your speech was lovely and I learned a lot and had fond memories surface listening to the other guests’ speeches. We’ve been to a few Fiji Days over the years and enjoyed them all, but this year was by far the best one. So much so that we have booked for us, our daughters, and my parents to return next year, and we have many friends seeking quotes to travel with us.”
An Island United in Celebration
Fiji Day is more than just a holiday—it’s a day that brings everyone together. Despite being a nation made up of over 300 islands, Fijians are united by their shared history, culture, and sense of community. At Plantation Island Resort, this sense of unity is celebrated in every aspect of the day. Locals and guests alike come together for a day that’s filled with joy, laughter, and appreciation for the unique beauty of Fijian culture.
A Family-Friendly Island Party
The best part about Fiji Day? It’s for everyone! Kids will love getting involved in the day’s activities, from learning traditional Fijian games to joining in arts and crafts workshops. There’s even a mini cultural parade where our younger guests can show off their Fijian-inspired creations. Families can enjoy a day of fun, culture, and connection that’s sure to create lifelong memories.
Why Fiji Day is a Must-Experience Event
For those lucky enough to be on the island for Fiji Day, every moment is something to treasure. The atmosphere is electric, the activities are non-stop, and the sense of togetherness is heartwarming. Many of our return guests say it’s their favorite day of the year, and we couldn’t agree more!
If you’ve never experienced Fiji Day at Plantation Island Resort, make sure to put it on your bucket list! It’s a day (or sometimes a week!) filled with celebration, tradition, and fun, and we know it will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
Make your plans to join us for Fiji Day and be part of this unforgettable experience at Plantation Island Resort!
