When is Constitution Day?
In 2026, Constitution Day falls on Friday, May 1, 2026. It is classified here as a paid public holiday.
History of Constitution Day
Constitution Day marks the coming into force of the Marshall Islands Constitution on May 1, 1979. The Constitution established the framework of the self-governing republic before the Compact of Free Association entered into force in 1986 and the United Nations Security Council formally terminated the trusteeship in 1990.
The anniversary is the country's national holiday and a moment to consider the relationship between democratic institutions, customary law and the people of the atolls. Its constitutional text recognises both Marshallese and English as authentic, while giving precedence to the Marshallese text in case of difference.
Ceremonies and educational programmes can highlight citizenship, the Nitijela and the continuing task of governing a dispersed island nation. In 2026, Constitution Day falls on Friday, May 1.
Elected delegates developed the Constitution through the 1978 Constitutional Convention, and it came into force on May 1, 1979, establishing a self-governing republic. The Nitijela elects the President from among its members, while the Council of Iroij has a consultative role on matters touching customary law and traditional practice. That structure reflects constitutional government alongside Marshallese institutions rather than a simple copy of a foreign presidential model.
The Compact of Free Association entered into force in 1986 and established a sovereign relationship with the United States, including U.S. responsibility for defence and provisions for economic assistance and mobility. Constitution Day is not Compact Day: the May 1 holiday commemorates the republic's constitutional foundation. In 2026 it falls on Friday, with public-office closure and continued essential work governed by the Public Holidays Act and current agency instructions.
How Constitution Day is observed
May 1; Friday, May 1 in 2026. Constitution Day closes public offices under the Public Holidays Act, while essential government work and private-sector schedules follow applicable directions and workplace rules.
Traditions of Constitution Day
Flag and civic ceremonies
Public programmes may include the national flag, speeches and recognition of constitutional institutions. For Constitution Day, programmes and schedules vary by atoll, institution and organiser, so current local notices remain the practical guide.
Civic learning
Schools and community groups can use the date to discuss the Constitution, customary law and citizenship. For Constitution Day, programmes and schedules vary by atoll, institution and organiser, so current local notices remain the practical guide.
Community celebrations
Families and neighbourhoods gather for meals, music, sport and local events. For Constitution Day, programmes and schedules vary by atoll, institution and organiser, so current local notices remain the practical guide.
Dates and observance rules are checked against the official Marshall Islands official holiday calendar or legislation. Government, regional, school and employer schedules in Marshall Islands may differ; check the linked official source and current local notices before making time-sensitive plans.
History sources: Republic of the Marshall Islands Public Service Commission: 2026 official holiday memos, Republic of the Marshall Islands: Public Holidays Act 1988, Nitijela: important public holidays, Embassy of the Republic of the Marshall Islands: government and nuclear-testing history, Office of the President and Cabinet: President's Day and Amata Kabua, Constitution of the Republic of the Marshall Islands.
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