The Yap Islands Congress created Yap District Day to preserve Yapese culture; it was renamed Yap Day in March 1979.

What happened

The Yap Islands Congress chose 1 March because it falls in the dry, “most pleasant” season. Yap Day features traditional dances by village groups, traditional games and displays of shell and stone money.

Why it matters

Yap Day is now a legal holiday in Yap State and a major celebration of Yapese culture.