Whit Monday, also known as Pentecost Monday, is a Christian holiday that is celebrated mainly in Europe and the Solomon Islands. It is a public holiday in the Solomon Islands and typically falls on the Monday immediately following Pentecost, a day when Christians celebrate the Holy Spirit's descent upon Jesus Christ's disciples. The festival derives its name from 'whitsun', a shortening of 'White Sunday', which speaks to the tradition of baptisms that used to take place on this day, where participants wore white.
In the Solomon Islands, Whit Monday is considered an important religious holiday. Christian religion holds a significant place in the cultural and social lives of the people in the Solomon Islands, approximately 93% of the population being Christ-followers. On Whit Monday, locals typically attend church services to commemorate the occasion. These services often include prayers, hymn singing, and scripture readings that reflect on the significance of the Holy Spirit in their faith.
Apart from the religious observance, the holiday also features festive celebrations. As with most holidays in the Solomon Islands, it's a time for families and communities to come together. Many celebrate with feasts, traditional music, and dance. Some communities may also have processions or parades. Despite the significance of the holiday, it's also a day for rest and relaxation. Many people take this day to unwind and enjoy the day off work, spending time with family and friends.