The recently concluded Yap Day Festival, one of the largest and most significant cultural events in Micronesia, has been declared another resounding success. The vibrant culture and heritage of Yap were showcased during the celebrations, which took place in the villages of Rull and Weloy from February 26 to March 3, 2025.
The festivities featured interactive cultural displays, including demonstrations of traditional crafts such as weaving, as well as the Yapese traditional presentation of shell and stone money. Visitors also enjoyed several traditional Yapese dances, which symbolized the island’s rich history. Women’s groups from both the main and outer islands collaborated to host a “Taste of Yap” booth, offering culinary experiences that highlighted the island’s connection to the land and sea.
One of the standout moments of this year’s festival was the successful rebuilding and maiden sailing of a traditional Yapese canoe — the same type used in ancient journeys to transport stone money from Palau to Yap. The canoe was sailed from its home in Maap to Weloy and then to the capital, Colonia, giving visitors a chance to witness Yap’s traditional maritime practices firsthand.
The event concluded with the passing of the Yap Day torch to the Tomil Municipality, which will host the 2026 festivities. To view photos and highlights from the 2025 Yap Day activities, visit the Yap Visitors Bureau’s Facebook and Instagram pages.
Source: Dive Newswire
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