Festivals

Timor-Leste holds several festivities to mark significant religious holidays and the nation's recent declaration of independence. Then there are big sporting competitions and cultural festivals that highlight Timor-friendliness Leste's and beauty. Participating is a wonderful opportunity to get to know Timorese people and learn more about their nation.

Easter is widely observed in this country, which is 90% catholic, and these dates are among the most popular national public holidays. It is the biggest festival in Timor-Leste and among the Timor-Leste culture, customs, and etiquette. For almost a whole week, including on Palm Sunday, Good Friday, and Easter Sunday, expect to see processions, ceremonies, and religious celebrations. Large family gatherings and events are held these days, but the primary Good Friday celebrations often begin with a trip to some holy location on top of a hill in each of the Timorese towns.

On May 20, Timor Leste also marks the day that its independence was restored. Because of the protracted, violent, decades-long war it took to ultimately obtain independence in 2002, this day is especially significant to the people of Timor Leste. Timor Leste joined the United Nations and the Community of Portuguese Language Countries on May 20, 2002, becoming the first brand-new sovereign state of the twenty-first century.