In the Cocos (Keeling) Islands, the impact of the tropical climate means that there is not a clear distinction between the seasons, but local community events and nature conservation activities are organized according to the transition between the dry and wet seasons. Below, the period from March to the following February is divided into spring, summer, autumn, and winter, summarizing the climatic characteristics and main events and cultures.
Spring (March to May)
Climate Characteristics
- Temperature: Average 27-31℃ with continued high temperatures
- Precipitation: March is the end of the wet season with higher rainfall, transitioning to the dry season in April to May with reduced rain
- Features: High humidity gradually trending towards dryness
Main Events & Culture
Month |
Event |
Content & Relation to Climate |
March |
Mawlid al-Nabi (Prophet's Birthday Celebration) |
A religious event based on the Islamic calendar. Outdoor gatherings are held indoors to avoid the end of the wet season. |
April |
Anzac Day (April 25) |
A memorial day for the Australian and New Zealand Army. Outdoor memorial services are relatively comfortable right after the onset of the dry season. |
May |
Eid al-Fitr (Breaking Fast) |
A festival celebrating the end of Ramadan. Outdoor meals are organized during cooler evening hours. |
Summer (June to August)
Climate Characteristics
- Temperature: Average 26-29℃ with the peak of the dry season feeling somewhat cooler
- Precipitation: Almost no rainfall. A pleasant season with sea breezes
- Features: Small daily temperature variation, low humidity, a comfortable tourism period
Main Events & Culture
Month |
Event |
Content & Relation to Climate |
June |
King's Birthday |
An Australian holiday. Community festivals make use of the dry climate and are held outdoors. |
July |
NAIDOC Week (National Aboriginal and Islanders Observance Committee Week) |
Events celebrating Indigenous culture. Workshops are held on beaches and parks in the dry climate. |
August |
Cocos Island Sports Day |
A sports tournament organized by local residents. Many sunny days allow for outdoor competitions without hindrance. |
Autumn (September to November)
Climate Characteristics
- Temperature: Average 28-32℃ gradually increasing
- Precipitation: After September, heavy rainfall becomes evident with rising sea temperatures
- Features: Increased humidity, with a higher risk of thunderstorms due to warming seawater
Main Events & Culture
Month |
Event |
Content & Relation to Climate |
October |
Turtle Conservation Week |
Cleaning activities and observation events coincide with the start of the turtle nesting season. Nighttime activities are central despite increased humidity. |
November |
Cocos Islands Cultural Festival |
Introduction of local Malay culture. Although this period has the highest humidity of the year, indoor stages and evening events are the mainstream. |
Winter (December to February)
Climate Characteristics
- Temperature: Average 28-33℃ being the hottest of the year
- Precipitation: Increased rainfall with the return of the wet season (especially in January to February)
- Features: High humidity, heavy rain, and risk of cyclones
Main Events & Culture
Month |
Event |
Content & Relation to Climate |
December |
Christmas and New Year Celebrations |
Community beach parties. Early December, being relatively dry before the start of the wet season, is a prime time. |
January |
Australia Day (January 26) |
Barbecues and water activities at the beach. Although it is hot and humid, the sea breeze can ease the heat. |
February |
Chinese New Year (variable) |
Celebrations by the Chinese community. Due to heavy rainfall during the wet season, indoor venues or events after sunset are common. |
Summary of Seasonal Events and Climate Relations
Season |
Climate Characteristics |
Example Main Events |
Spring |
High temperature and humidity at the end of the wet season → Transition to dry season |
Mawlid al-Nabi, Anzac Day, Eid al-Fitr |
Summer |
Pleasant dry season climate |
King's Birthday, NAIDOC Week, Cocos Island Sports Day |
Autumn |
Increased humidity and risk of thunderstorms |
Turtle Conservation Week, Cocos Islands Cultural Festival |
Winter |
Return of the wet season; hot and humid |
Christmas & New Year, Australia Day, Chinese New Year |
Additional Notes
- Many residents are Muslim, and events based on the Islamic calendar have become firmly rooted as seasonal events.
- Public holidays as part of Australia serve as important opportunities to enhance community unity within the island.
- Due to the clear cycle between the wet and dry seasons, outdoor events are adjusted in timing and method according to weather conditions.
- Marine ecosystem conservation (turtles, coral reefs) is tied to cultural events and also serves as tourist resources.
- Changes in the seasons affect the scheduling of fisheries, agricultural products, and imported goods, impacting the regional economy.
This concludes the relationship between the climatic characteristics and main seasonal events in the Cocos (Keeling) Islands.