Vanuatu is an island nation located in the South Pacific, influenced by a tropical climate. Below are the characteristics of the climate by season and the main seasonal events.
Spring (March to May)
Climate Characteristics
- Temperature: Average 25–30°C, high temperatures
- Precipitation: March is the end of the rainy season with high rainfall, gradually transitioning to the dry season in April and May
- Characteristics: Humidity gradually decreases, more blue skies begin to appear, but there are short, intense showers
Main Events and Culture
| Month |
Event |
Content and Relation to Climate |
| April |
Naghol (Land Diving) |
A traditional land diving festival held on Pentecost Island, conducted to coincide with the end of the rainy season. |
| May |
Yam Harvest Festival (Yam Fest) |
A festival celebrating the yam harvest held in Tanna Island and other locations, conducted under stable weather as the dry season begins. |
Summer (June to August)
Climate Characteristics
- Temperature: Average 23–28°C, comfortable temperatures
- Precipitation: The peak of the dry season with the least rainfall, continuous sunny days
- Characteristics: Lower humidity improves air circulation, ideal for leisure activities in the sea and mountains
Main Events and Culture
| Month |
Event |
Content and Relation to Climate |
| July |
Independence Day |
Celebrated nationwide on July 30. Blessed with fine weather during the dry season, many outdoor events are held. |
| July |
Fest Napuan Music Festival |
A music festival held in Port Vila. Enjoy outdoor concerts in the cool night breeze. |
Autumn (September to November)
Climate Characteristics
- Temperature: Average 26–30°C
- Precipitation: Gradual transition to the rainy season from September to November, increasing risk of periodic showers and cyclones
- Characteristics: Increased evening showers with rising humidity
Main Events and Culture
| Month |
Event |
Content and Relation to Climate |
| October |
Port Vila Carnival |
A street parade and dance competition that utilizes the calm weather at the end of the dry season. |
| November |
Coconut Festival |
A festival celebrating the harvest and processing of coconuts held in places like Malekula. Conducted in pleasant weather. |
Winter (December to February)
Climate Characteristics
- Temperature: Average 27–31°C, the hottest temperatures
- Precipitation: The peak of the rainy season with maximum rainfall, be cautious of tropical depressions and cyclones
- Characteristics: High humidity and prolonged rainfall may affect maritime activities and transportation
Main Events and Culture
| Month |
Event |
Content and Relation to Climate |
| December |
Christmas and New Year |
Church events, fireworks, and beach parties, conducted amid breaks in the rainy season. |
| February |
Valentine's Day |
Gift exchanges among relatives and friends, celebrated during a period when the tropical night breeze is pleasant. |
Summary of Seasonal Events and Climate Relations
| Season |
Climate Characteristics |
Main Event Examples |
| Spring |
Transition from the end of the rainy season to the dry season, gradually decreasing humidity |
Naghol (Land Diving), Yam Harvest Festival |
| Summer |
Peak of the dry season, continuing sunny days |
Independence Day, Fest Napuan Music Festival |
| Autumn |
Transition from the end of the dry season to the rainy season, increasing showers |
Port Vila Carnival, Coconut Festival |
| Winter |
Peak of the rainy season, high temperatures and humidity, risk of cyclones |
Christmas and New Year, Valentine's Day |
Supplement
- Traditional festivals are linked to agricultural and harvest periods, with climate stability being important.
- The sunny days of the dry season support outdoor events and the tourist season.
- The rainy season typically involves events conducted with precautions against frost and low-pressure systems.
- Information about cyclones should be checked regularly from meteorological announcements to adjust event schedules.
In Vanuatu, the transitions of the climate influence the timing of cultural events and festivals, deeply rooted in the awareness of coexistence with nature.
Patchy rain possible