Vanuatu Custom Chiefs Day

Vanuatu Custom Chiefs Day

March 5Among the 83 islands that compose the island nation of Vanuatu are many that have rejected European influence and instead prefer to live according to their traditional customs. While customs vary widely throughout the islands, village life, subsistence farming, a belief in magic, and rule by chiefs are common.
In 1977 a National Council of Chiefs was set up by the government to advise and propose ways to ensure the preservation of traditional ways of life through Vanuatu. These tribal chiefs are honored on March 5 of each year, which is a public holiday. Celebratory activities on this day include sporting events, carnivals, agricultural fairs, and arts festivals.
CONTACTS:
Vanuatu Tourism Office—North America
995 Holly Ct.
Monteagle, TN 37356
931-924-5253; fax: 931-924-1866
www.vanuatutourism.com