The Official Birthday of His Majesty King Tupou VI is a national holiday in Tonga, falling annually on 4th July. This holiday is in honor of King Tupou VI, the reigning monarch of the kingdom. King Tupou VI ascended to the throne in March 2012 following the death of his brother, King George Tupou V. The day is marked with a variety of national events, ceremonies, and public festivities.
This holiday stands as a significant occasion in the South Pacific island kingdom of Tonga. The citizens of Tonga use the day to honor and celebrate King Tupou VI, expressing their respect and loyalty to the reigning monarch. Traditional displays of feasting, dancing, and singing and offering of gifts from citizens are the main highlights of the day. Moreover, parades, concerts, and theatrical representations of the country’s history and culture are also a focal part of the festivities.
While the Official Birthday of His Majesty King Tupou VI is earnestly celebrated in Tonga, it should be noted that it does not necessarily fall on the actual birth date of the king, which is on 12th July. This mirrors similar practices seen in other countries, such as the United Kingdom, where Queen Elizabeth II's official birthday is celebrated apart from her real birth date. Despite the discrepancy, the day remains one of the most significant dates in the Tongan calendar, reflecting the population's deep respect for their monarchy.