Did You Know?
At the White Sunday feast the usual order is reversed: children are served first, and the adults wait on them.
Lotu a Tamaiti
🇼🇸 Samoa
- Public Holiday
- Countrywide
- Fixed date
Overview
Lotu a Tamaiti, widely known as White Sunday, is a Samoan celebration of children. Held each year on the second Sunday of October, it places children at the center of church services and family feasts, and children traditionally dress in white for the occasion.
What It Is
On White Sunday, children wear white clothes to church and take leading roles in the service, reciting Bible verses, singing, and performing. Afterward families gather for a large festive meal. In 2026 the festival falls on Sunday, October 11, with the public holiday observed on Monday, October 12.
Why It Matters
White Sunday reflects the central place of church and family in Samoan life. By giving children the spotlight in worship and at the table, the day honors them as valued members of the community and lets them show what they have learned. The white clothing gives the festival its common name and its distinctive look.
Countries Celebrating
1 country
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