Flag Day in American Samoa commemorates the day in 1900 when chiefs of Tutuila signed the Treaty of Cession, officially placing American Samoa under U.S. sovereignty. Four years later, the chiefs of Manu'a also signed a cession agreement, completing the union of the islands with the United States.

When is Flag Day?

Flag Day in American Samoa is celebrated every year on April 17.

The following is the list of Flag Day from 2020 to 2049.

The History of Flag Day?

Flag Day in American Samoa is celebrated every year on April 17 to mark the signing of the Treaty of Cession of Tutuila in 1900. On this date, Samoan chiefs from Tutuila formally ceded their islands to the United States. Four years later, in 1904, the chiefs of Manu'a also signed a treaty of cession, bringing the entire island group under U.S. sovereignty. Together, these agreements laid the foundation for American Samoa as an unincorporated U.S. territory.

The first Flag Day took place on April 17, 1900, when the U.S. flag was raised over Tutuila after the treaty was signed. This event was attended by local chiefs, community members, and U.S. naval representatives. The ceremony symbolized both the beginning of American Samoa's political relationship with the United States and the blending of Samoan traditions with American governance.

Over time, April 17 became recognized as the territory's most important public holiday. The U.S. Navy, which administered American Samoa until 1951, helped organize annual ceremonies. Later, after administration shifted to the U.S. Department of the Interior, the government of American Samoa continued the tradition, making it a central part of the islands' identity.

Today, Flag Day is not only a commemoration of political history but also a celebration of Samoan culture and heritage.