King Tupou I Day honors the memory and legacy of King George Tupou I, the founding monarch of modern Tonga and one of the most transformative leaders in Pacific history.

When is Tonga National Day?

Tonga National Day is celebrated on December 4 each year, but it is often moved to the following Monday when it is on Thursday, Friday, Saturday or Sunday, and the preceding Monday when it is on Tuesday and Wednesday.

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

The History of King Tupou I Day?

King Tupou I was born around 1797 as Tāufaʻāhau in Haʻapai. He rose from local chiefdom to become King of Tonga in 1845, officially unifying the islands. He reigned until 1893, making him the longest-reigning Tongan monarch at the time. His Christian faith and Western education influenced his leadership style.

Before his rule, Tonga was divided among competing chiefs. He used diplomacy, military strength, and religious influence to bring the islands under one central authority.

He freed commoners from bondage to chiefs, making Tonga one of the first Pacific nations to end feudal practices.

On November 4, 1875, he introduced a written constitution that defined a constitutional monarchy, and established a parliamentary system.

While Tonga entered a Treaty of Friendship with Britain in 1900, King Tupou I's groundwork ensured the nation retained full internal sovereignty.

While King Tupou I died on December 18, 1893, December 4 was chosen as his official remembrance day. However, the exact reason for selecting this date is not fully documented.