Yap Day is a significant holiday in Micronesia, specifically in the state of Yap (abbreviated as YA). Yap Day is perhaps one of the most colorful cultural events in the region, highlighting Micronesian pride and heritage. The holiday is an annual celebration usually held in early March to commemorate and preserve traditional Yapese culture, customs, and heritage. This noteworthy festival displays indigenous values, traditions and centuries-old craftsmanship.
Yap Day is not just a one-day occasion but a two-day event packed with a wondrous array of traditional activities. The festivities are held in the village of Colonia and include dancing, music performances, traditional sports, exhibitions, and display of local artistic craftsmanship. One can witness ancient customs and practices come to life through displays of traditional navigation, handiwork such as weaving and carving, traditional money making, and food preparation. Traditional attire woven from grass and flowers takes center stage during elaborate dances performed by locals.
The Yapese are highly disciplined culture preservationists and this is profoundly reflected in Yap Day. Each dance tells a story of the Yapese culture and history while music provides a resonating rhythm that accompanies these tales. The Thatch-roofed men's houses become the center of activities packed with rows of men weaving, carving and tattooing. This holiday provides a deep insight into Yap's intricate society and keeps the Yapese culture alive, demonstrating the enduring qualities of Micronesia's cultural values and traditions.