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Section 9. Guam Holidays and Village Events
In addition to most U.S. Federal holidays, Guam observes a few other days recognizing historical events for the island.
Guam History & Chamorro Heritage Day: This holiday is celebrated on the first Monday in March. This holiday was formerly known as Discovery Day and was a day to commemorate the day Ferdinand Magellan first landed on Guam. Today, this holiday is about remembering Guam's rich history and culture. This holiday is celebrated with a festival in the village of Umatac.
Liberation Day: This holiday is the most celebrated holiday on the Island of Guam. Observed on July 21st, Liberation day commemorates the day the United States military came to liberate the island of Guam from the Japanese in World War II. There are many ceremonies and events that lead up to Liberation Day. These events are commemorations of different historic sites across the island where many had given up their lives during the war. On Liberation Day, a portion of the main road in the capital village of Hagatña is closed of for the Liberation Day Parade. Many families camp along the roadside and watch as the village floats go by.
All Souls' Day: All Souls' Day is observed each year on November 2nd. This holiday belonging to the Roman Catholic religion is a day when families remember loved ones that have passed away. His tradition, though religious, also has ties to Ancient Chamorro practices in which they venerated their ancestors by visiting their graves in bringing food. Today, families celebrate All Souls' Day by visiting graves of loved ones and bringing flowers or other items to commemorate the deceased.
Santa Marian Kamalen Day: Santa Marian Kamalen Day is observed on December 8. Santa Marian Kamalen or Our Lady of Camarin is the patron saint of Guam. During this holiday, parishioners assemble for the rosary and novena outside the Dulce Nombre de Maria Cathedral – Basilica. Upon conclusion of the novena, a procession begins and thousands of people march around Hagatña.
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