The Kings birthday is on the 4th of July.  It is a national public holiday.  Every year in Tonga the King’s Birthday involves huge celebrations which include the Heilala Week Festival which ties in with the Environment and Tourism week.  There are cultural days and Ministry of Education day.  There is a military parade on the 4th of July, concluding with a prayer of thanksgiving for His Majesty’s birthday, followed by a royal luncheon and traditional performances. 

 

 

There are many visiting dignitaries who participate in this event.  In fact, this has always been an opportune time to visit Tonga because it is in the cooler months and there are so many activities taking place, including beauty pageants, sporting events, as well as many fine demonstrations of Tongan culture.