Yap Day is observed on March 1 in Yap State, one of the four constituent states of the Federated States of Micronesia. Today, the island’s natives celebrate their culture, cuisine, traditions, families, and, of course, scuba diving. Featuring cultural dances, traditional crafts, ornaments, demonstrations, and competitions, it is the most colourful and exciting day of the year.
The background of Yap Day
Yap Day is observed in Yap State, but visitors are enthusiastically invited to join in the festivities. The Yapese tradition not only acknowledges and celebrates the Yap, but also safeguards their cultural identity. It is encouraged that tourists from all over the world visit Yap to learn about its people and unique customs and to participate in them. Competitions and entertainment are planned for the day.
The customary ceremonial attire of the Yap brings the culture to life with its vibrant hues. Yap Day is also the time of year when manta rays are at their peak mating season and dance in unison over the lagoon.
The neighbouring villages compete in dancing, coconut grading, tree climbing, and weaving events. As the Yap culture is celebrated, everyone emerges victorious. Everywhere you look, there are displays of traditional dress, rope making, canoe construction, bamboo raft making, and grass skirt assembly.
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YAP DAY ACTIVITIES
Explore the Yap culture
Regarding the culture, history, and people of Yap, there is much to learn. Discover fascinating information about their stone currency, eat and drink the local cuisine, take numerous photographs, and purchase traditional handicrafts as mementos.
Learn to dance the Yap
Gather a group of companions and try to learn the Yap dance. There are countless videos available online that teach the fundamentals.
Feast like a Yap
Indulge in traditional Yap cuisine, which consists of yams, taro, bananas, breadfruit, and reef fish.
5 fascinating YAP facts
The Yap Main Islands consist of four individual islands: Yap Island (Marbaq), Gagil-Tamil, Maap, and Rumung.
The state of Yap’s capital is Colonia.
In 2010, there were 11,377 people living in the Yap region.
Myths and legends are passed down from generation to generation through songs, dances, tales, and paintings.
The Yapese language is likely one of the hardest languages to learn in the world.
YAP DAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | March 1 | Wednesday |
| 2024 | March 1 | Friday |
| 2025 | March 1 | Saturday |
| 2026 | March 1 | Sunday |
| 2027 | March 1 | Monday |
