The festivals in the South Pacific are as varied as their natural land. From cultural celebrations, historical holidays and world-class sporting matches, experience the diverse events and festivals the region has on offer.

Bounty Day - Norfolk Island

Bounty Day is a crucial part of Norfolk's history. Immerse yourself in the exclusive Norfolk Island holiday package on June 8th, where you can partake in the unique celebration of Bounty Day. Recognised as their 'National Holiday', Bounty day marks the arrival of the Pitcairn islanders in 1856 - descendants of English sailors and Tahitian woman. Visitors are welcomed to join locals celebrate as they re-enact this historic day and show off their true Norfolk charm and hospitality. A Norfolk Island holiday for Bounty Day is a unique and unmissable opportunity to get to know more about Norfolk Island history.

Dive Week - Lord Howe Island

Lord Howe Island’s marine park hosts 500 exotic fish species and 90 different types of coral. As Australia's premier diving destination, the local community has dedicated diving weeks in early December and late February. Take to the other-worldly caverns of Ball's Pyramid or discover vibrant colours in Erscott's Hole - with 80 different diving places to explore, you'll be spoilt for choice.

Noumea Carnival - New Caledonia

Held in mid-August every year, the Noumea Carnival is one of the largest events in New Caledonia. Offering traditional costumes, music, concerts and food, join locals as they parade through the streets in the early evening. All the festivities lead to an explosion of fireworks on the quay, officially marking the end of celebrations.

Heiva I Tahiti - Tahiti

Every year in July, Tahiti comes alive with the spirit of Heiva I Tahiti, a month-long cultural festival that celebrates the rich Polynesian heritage and traditions. This vibrant event is the highlight of the Tahitian calendar and attracts visitors from all over the world.

The history of the Heiva I Tahiti dates back centuries, to times when ancient Polynesians held festivities to celebrate tribal and spiritual events. However, these traditions were suppressed in the 19th century by the European colonial powers, and it was not until the 20th century that these traditions were revived and celebrated openly. Today, Heiva I Tahiti stands not just as a festival, but also as a symbol of the resilience and revival of Polynesian culture.

The festival showcases traditional Tahitian arts, including music, dance, singing, and sports. The dance competitions are the highlight of the event, featuring performances of the 'ote'a and aparima, two traditional Tahitian dance forms. Dancers dressed in colourful traditional costumes perform intricate routines to the rhythm of drums and ukuleles, creating a captivating spectacle.

Apart from the dance and music performances, Heiva I Tahiti also hosts traditional sports competitions. These include stone lifting, coconut tree climbing, fruit carrying races, and the much-anticipated outrigger canoe races. Each of these events represents an aspect of the ancient Polynesian way of life and offers a unique insight into this fascinating culture.

Experiencing Heiva I Tahiti is a deep dive into Polynesian culture and a must-do for any visitor to this beautiful archipelago in July. Whether it's the rhythmic dancing, the powerful music, the thrill of the sports competitions, or the overall spirit of celebration and camaraderie, Heiva I Tahiti is a celebration of life and culture that simply cannot be missed.

Browse our Tahiti holiday packages to start planning your trip!

'Sevens in Heaven’ Rugby Tournament - The Cook Islands

Experience the heart-pounding excitement of the Cook Islands International 7s, the most anticipated rugby event in the Pacific. Known colloquially as 'Sevens in Heaven,’ this thrilling three-day tournament hosts some of the best rugby talent from the region and beyond, bringing together 20 men's and 6 women's teams in a fierce competition.

But the 'Sevens in Heaven' is more than just a rugby tournament. It's a major event that draws families, fans, and festival-goers together under the radiant sun of the Cook Islands. As the players battle it out on the field, the crowd revels in the spirited atmosphere, eagerly waiting to see which team will emerge as champions.

To add to the festive ambience, the 'Sevens in Heaven' also hosts a novelty costume contest. Supporters come dressed in their most creative outfits, adding a splash of color and fun to the proceedings. From comical to traditional, and sometimes downright outlandish, the costumes are a spectacle in themselves.

Don't forget the thrilling ANZ Dash for Cash event, which sees audience members invited onto the field for a chance to win cash prizes. This light-hearted race is a crowd favorite and adds an extra layer of excitement to the tournament.

The 'Sevens in Heaven’ offers a perfect blend of sport, entertainment, and local culture, making it a must-see event for anyone visiting the Cook Islands. Not only do you get to witness top-quality rugby in a stunning tropical paradise, but you also get to immerse yourself in the warm, community-centric culture of the Cook Islands.

Ready to experience the excitement and camaraderie of the Cook Islands International 7s? Don't wait – secure your spot now by booking one of our Cook Islands holiday packages. Be part of the thrill, the passion, and the celebration of this exceptional event. Your unforgettable Cook Islands adventure is just a click away!

Hibiscus Festival - Fiji

Experience Fijian culture in all its vibrant and colourful glory at the Hibiscus Festival. Taking place in Suva every August, this festival is more than just an event - it's a week-long celebration that truly captures the heart and soul of Fiji.

The Hibiscus Festival offers a cornucopia of live music, dance performances, and an amusement park, providing entertainment for all ages. You can immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere and witness the rich Fijian heritage expressed through music and dance, as traditional and contemporary performers take the stage.

As you wander through the festival, make sure to browse the numerous stalls that offer an array of Fijian arts, crafts, and foods. Whether it's unique handmade jewellery, beautifully woven mats, or delicious Fijian cuisine, the array of offerings is a testament to the island's rich culture and creativity.

The culmination of the Hibiscus Festival is the crowning of 'Miss Hibiscus.' This much-anticipated event is not just a beauty pageant; it's a showcase of the participants' knowledge, passion, and commitment to social issues, as well as their grace and beauty. It's a celebration of the empowerment and role of women in Fijian society, adding a significant cultural depth to the festivities.

Visiting Fiji during the Hibiscus Festival provides an unparalleled opportunity to dive deep into the nation's cultural tapestry. This festival offers you the chance to interact with the local community, participate in traditional events, taste local food, and even learn about the issues close to the Fijian heart.

So why wait? Immerse yourself in this spectacular fusion of color, culture, and celebration. Experience the Hibiscus Festival as part of our exclusive Fiji holiday packages. Step away from the ordinary and dive into the extraordinary. Don't just visit Fiji – live it, feel it, and breathe it in.

Book your Fiji holiday package now and secure your place in this unforgettable cultural experience. Your dream Fijian adventure is just a click away!

Naghol Land Diving - Vanuatu

Naghol is the ancient ritual of land diving that takes place on Pentecost Island in Vanuatu. Naghol is also the inspiration behind the modern-day extreme sport of bungee jumping, which was invented after the creator AJ Hackett witnessed this amazing feat.

The land diving, which takes place between April and June each year, involves jumping from tall towers or structures (usually 20 – 30 metres high) with a vine tied to their feet. A special type of vine which has some elasticity is used, which is why the event is seasonal.

The ritual has significant meaning for the people of Vanuatu – it is steeped in legend and is believed to bring a good yam harvest and fertility for men. It also used to signify the progression into manhood.

Experience the South Pacific:

The team at Spacifica Travel specialise in the South Pacific region and have expert knowledge of all the different events, festivals and celebrations that happen year-round. If you are interested in traveling to the South Pacific and would like some advice regarding the best destination to suit your interests, budget and travel dates, please get in touch with us on 1800 800 722.