Christmas Day in Vanuatu is a blend of traditional Melanesian culture and Western influences. Celebrated on December 25th, like in many other countries around the world, this day is a public holiday in the South Pacific nation of Vanuatu. The locality decorates streets, shops, and homes with flashy lights and decorations. Christmas carols are sung in Bislama, English and French, as these are the three official languages of Vanuatu.
Coming together as families and communities is an integral part of the holiday season in Vanuatu. On Christmas Day, many families attend church services and then enjoy a feast featuring local food and drinks. Given the tropical climate of Vanuatu, these feasts often take place outdoors where people can enjoy the natural beauty of their surroundings. For many, a special dish called 'laplap', which is a type of root vegetable cake, is prepared and served.
Another important aspect of Christmas Day in Vanuatu is the gift-giving tradition. Much like other countries, children in Vanuatu eagerly wait for presents from Father Christmas. However, the spirit of giving extends beyond families and into the wider community. Many people in Vanuatu use the holiday as an opportunity to give back to their community, donating food, clothing and other essentials to those in need. The day is marked with joy, reunions, sharing and spreading love.