Independence Day is a public holiday in Papua New Guinea, observed on September 16 yearly. The holiday commemorates the anniversary of Papua New Guinea's independence from Australia in 1975.
Papua New Guinea is a country in Oceania that comprises the eastern half of the island of New Guinea and its offshore islands in Melanesia. Beginning in 1884, the country's northern half was a German colony, while the southern half was a British colony. During World War I, Australian forces captured German New Guinea in 1914.
After World War II, the northern territory and southern territory were combined. They named the Territory of Papua and New Guinea, which was later referred to as Papua New Guinea and was under the control of Australia. On September 16, 1975, the country claimed its independence.
Independence Day is one of the most important holidays in Papua New Guinea. Celebrations in Papua New Guinea usually involve shows and fireworks during the holiday.
The following is the list of Independence Day in Papua New Guinea from 2022 to 2026.
| Holiday | Date | Weekday |
|---|---|---|
| Independence Day | Sep 16, 2022 | Friday |
| Independence Day | Sep 16, 2023 | Saturday |
| Independence Day | Sep 16, 2024 | Monday |
| Independence Day | Sep 16, 2025 | Tuesday |
| Independence Day | Sep 16, 2026 | Wednesday |
Please check more public holidays in Papua New Guinea: