Father Lini Day for the year 2023 is celebrated/observed on Tuesday, February 21st. There are until the next observance.
Every year on February 21, Vanuatu celebrates Father Lini Day as a public holiday. On this day, Father Walter Lini, an important person in the history of this South Pacific nation, is remembered. Did you know that Father Lini was a priest? Yes, Father Lini was a ‘Raga’ Anglican priest before becoming the first Prime Minister of Vanuatu’s newly founded sovereign nation. He had witnessed many injustices against his fellow islanders since his childhood and wanted to make a difference. So, who is Father Lini, and what role does he play in developing Vanuatu? Everything you need to know about Vanuatu and Father Lini is right here.
📆 When is Father Lini Day?
This year, Father Lini Day is on February 21st. It is the 3rd Tuesday in February; in 2024, it is on Wednesday.
→ Did you know: The country is made up of roughly 80 islands that cover an area of 807.8 miles.
You can also explore all exciting things you didn’t know about and facts about February 21, 2023.
📜 History of Father Lini Day
In reaction to national liberation struggles, the country gained independence in 1980. Father Lini was elected party leader and sworn in as Vanuatu’s first prime minister on July 30, 1980. He picked the name Vanuatu because it signifies “our land forever.” Father Lini served there until 1991, when he died in 1999. Every year on February 21, people pay tribute to Father Lini by attending memorial services and other special activities.
Every year on this day, national officials assemble in two locations to celebrate Lini Day. Typically, a church service is held, followed by a wreath-laying at his tomb, remarks, a ceremonial ritual, and a traditional feast.
☑️ Father Lini Day facts
✅ It has a small population
This country has a population of over 300,000 people, with 82% of them being Christians.
✅ They speak many languages
Vanuatu’s national languages are Bislama, English, and French.
✅ It is an agricultural country
The agriculture industry employs the majority of Vanuatu’s population and serves as the country’s backbone.
✨ Things to do on Father Lini Day
⚡ Educate others
You may best mark Father Lini Day by spreading awareness of Father Lini, his role in the independence movement, and how he helped define the nation’s destiny. You can spend some time telling your relatives and friends about Father Lini.
⚡ Enjoy the ceremony
One of the most meaningful ways to participate in Father Lini Day is to attend the festivities and rituals that take place on this day. Many prominent people will be present during the occasion.
⚡ Share your story
If you have visited the beautiful nation of Vanuatu, you can help spread the news. Make use of your social media handles to spread the word about this island country.
📅 Father Lini Day Observances
| YEAR | DATE | DAY |
| 2023 | February 21 | Tuesday |
| 2024 | February 21 | Wednesday |
| 2025 | February 21 | Friday |
| 2026 | February 21 | Saturday |
| 2027 | February 21 | Sunday |
Discover all February holidays, including Federal and other Appreciation holidays.
We will continue to update this page with new information and must-know facts about Father Lini Day. So be sure to check back soon.