Fiji is located in the South Pacific and belongs to a tropical climate. It is hot and humid throughout the year, but from March to May is the end of the rainy season, from June to August is the dry season, from September to November is the transition from the latter part of the dry season to the rainy season, and from December to February is the peak of the rainy season. Below are explanations of the climate characteristics for each season and their relationship with main events and culture.
Spring (March to May)
Climate Characteristics
- March to April: The end of the rainy season with high temperature and humidity, short heavy rain and thunderstorms are likely to occur.
- May: Precipitation gradually decreases, and the transition to the dry season begins.
Main Events and Culture
Month |
Event |
Relationship with Climate |
March |
Easter |
Christian-related events are celebrated in various places during the hot and humid end of the rainy season. |
April |
Suva Sevens |
A rugby tournament is held as rainfall begins to settle down but the heat continues. |
May |
Sugar Cane Harvest Festival |
A traditional rural event celebrating the harvest season before entering the dry season. |
Summer (June to August)
Climate Characteristics
- It is the height of the dry season with the least precipitation, and daytime maximum temperatures are around 25 to 28°C.
- Trade winds blow, leading to a refreshing climate.
Main Events and Culture
Month |
Event |
Relationship with Climate |
June |
Matamanoa Yam Festival |
A traditional event praying for the harvest of yams (taro). Held during the sunny dry season. |
July |
Opening of Marine Sports Season |
Marine sports and beach festivals. Stable weather during the dry season is important. |
August |
Hibiscus Festival (Suva) |
A large-scale event celebrating flowers and culture. Many participants gather during the cool dry season nights. |
Autumn (September to November)
Climate Characteristics
- September: The end of the dry season with little precipitation.
- October: The transition to the rainy season begins, gradually increasing humidity and rainfall.
- November: Characterized by muggy weather just before entering the rainy season.
Main Events and Culture
Month |
Event |
Relationship with Climate |
September |
Suva Marathon |
A civic marathon held on cool mornings at the end of the dry season. Stable weather is preferred. |
October |
Fiji Day (Independence Day / October 10) |
Parades and national events are held under sunny weather. |
November |
Diwali (Festival of Lights) |
A celebration of the Indian community. Lights shine amid the muggy climate on the weekend. |
Winter (December to February)
Climate Characteristics
- It is the peak of the rainy season with a high risk of tropical cyclones.
- Hot and humid conditions continue, and short heavy rains or downpours are likely.
Main Events and Culture
Month |
Event |
Relationship with Climate |
December |
Christmas & New Year |
Celebrations take place across the country at beaches and churches. Crowds gather amid heavy rain and high temperatures. |
January |
Chinese New Year |
Celebrations of the Chinese community. Held amid breaks in the rainy season. |
February |
National Rugby Sevens Tournament |
A national tournament featuring fierce competitions. The hot and humid climate welcomes spectators. |
Summary of Seasonal Events and Climate Relation
Season |
Climate Characteristics |
Main Event Examples |
Spring |
Hot and humid at the end of the rainy season |
Easter, Suva Sevens, Harvest Festival |
Summer |
Stable sunny weather in the dry season |
Yam Festival, Opening of Marine Sports, Hibiscus Festival |
Autumn |
Humid weather transitioning from the dry season |
Suva Marathon, Fiji Day, Diwali |
Winter |
Hot and humid at the peak of the rainy season |
Christmas, New Year, Chinese New Year |
Additional Notes
- Many events in Fiji are linked to agricultural calendars and religious celebrations and are held in accordance with seasonal cycles.
- The dry season is suitable for outdoor sports and festivals, while the rainy season sees an increase in indoor or religious activities.
- Traditional dances, music, and local cuisine reflect seasonal ingredients and climate.
- Due to weather risks like cyclones, dates and locations may be flexibly adjusted.
In Fiji, the connection between climate and culture is close, and the change of the seasons significantly influences the timing and format of events.