Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — ASG workers are enjoying the first day of a four-day weekend in celebration of American Samoa’s 126th Flag Day commemorating the raising of the U.S. flag for the first time in 1900; and thus, marking the date the islands officially became a U.S. territory. This is a significant year as the United States approaches its 250th anniversary.

In a General Memorandum, Governor Pula’ali’i Nikolao Pula announced that today, Thursday, April 16, 2026 will be observed as part of the Flag Day Holiday in American Samoa. The official holiday will follow on Friday, April 17, 2026. Employees of the American Samoa Government who are not required to perform essential services shall be excused from duty those two days. Those required to perform duties on these days will receive holiday wages in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.

“With gratitude for your service, hard work and dedication, I encourage you to celebrate our heritage and rich culture. Happy Flag Day, Amerika Samoa,” the governor wrote.

Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata released the following statement celebrating Flag Day 2026: 

“Our Flag Day is always special, but last year and this year are part of major historic milestones. Last year was our 125th Flag Day celebration, and this year has added significance as we are just 11 weeks from America 250, July 4, 2026, the 250th birthday of the United States. While we celebrate our ties with the USA now in our traditional way, we also look forward to nationwide celebrations in a few short months for the Sesquicentennial of the nation. 

“Every April 17, we celebrate the first official raising of the American flag, first in Tutuila and joining four years later, we also honor the important addition of Manu’a. We respect the memory of our forefathers in 1900 and 1904, who were our Matai chiefs of the time. They agreed to join the U.S., while taking careful steps to preserve our islands as Samoan in culture. Because of their precaution and precedent, while we’ve modernized with the rest of the world, we still have our Samoan way, our language, our land and Matai traditions. 

“We are proud to be part of a country that has sacrificed for the cause of freedom, and supports the ideals of constitutional and democratic governments, free elections, human rights and religious freedoms. 

“As the U.S. celebrates America 250, American Samoa’s tradition of patriotism and military service is part of that celebration. We should never miss an opportunity to honor our many Veterans, Service Members, and military families. 

“God bless American Samoa and the USA. Have a happy 126th Flag Day!”

Samoa News will not publish Friday, but you can look for updates on our website and Facebook page.

Happy Flag Day American Samoa, we will be back on Monday. Be safe, be kind to one another. God bless.