The Day after New Year's Day is celebrated in Samoa, a country located in the central South Pacific, forming part of Polynesia, within the larger region of Oceania. This public holiday falls on January 2nd and is marked by fireworks and various lively celebrations. Samoa is one of the first countries in the world to welcome the new year, thanks to its geographical location just west of the international date line.
Samoa's Day after New Year's Day is an extra day for the Samoan people to rest and relax after the exhilarating New Year's Eve celebrations. As a day off for the general population, schools and most businesses are closed. It is a time for families and friends to come together and enjoy a day of leisure and relaxation. Many also use this day to attend church services, reflecting on the past year and praying for prosperity and good health in the new year.
Additionally, certain Samoan traditions such as 'umu', a traditional above the ground stone oven heated by glowing hot lava rocks, are practiced on this day. Families gather to prepare large feasts using this traditional method. Samoa's Day after New Year's Day also serves as a means to preserve and celebrate Samoa's rich culture and traditions amidst the joyous new year celebrations. And despite being a tiny island nation, Samoa's New Year celebrations, including the Day after New Year's Day, are renowned worldwide for their spirit and enthusiasm.