SHORT INFORMATION

Geography of Tonga

Located in Oceania, Tonga is an archipelago in the South Pacific Ocean, directly south of Western Samoa and about two-thirds of the way from Hawaii to New Zealand. Its 176 islands, 36 of them inhabited, are divided into three main groups – Vava'u, Ha'apai, and Tongatapu – and cover an 800-kilometre (500-mile)-long north-south line.

HOLIDAYS AND TRADITIONS

Culture of Tonga

Dance in Tonga has traditionally been an important art form, and this becomes evident during exhibitions of Tongan dancing performed for visitors on the waterfront. The songs and dances describe the legendary exploits of the King's ancestors.

HOLIDAYS AND TRADITIONS

Festivals and Events in Tonga

On the fourth of July, the Tongans celebrate the King's birthday with the week long Heilala Festival. It coincides with the flowering of the Heilala, Tonga's national flower.