By: Faith Chen
KOROR, Palau (Oct. 2, 2025) — Palau marked its 31st Independence Day on Oct. 1 with the Olchotel Belau Fair, a cultural event featuring traditional performances, food, and artisan displays that drew large crowds throughout the day.
The fair opened with Chesols, a traditional chant, followed by Rebetii, a playful chant lasting several minutes. Groups from Palau’s 16 states performed a range of cultural presentations, including Boid chants and dances, cheldebechel dancing, and other traditional and contemporary performances.
Displays of root crops, fruit trees, carving, weaving, bamboo raft building, and art exhibitions accompanied the performances. Each state presented traditional dishes, giving attendees an opportunity to sample Palauan cuisine. The event closed with a historical video outlining the origins of the Olchotel Belau Fair and its role in promoting cultural unity.
Attendees shared positive reactions to the day’s events.
“The 31st Independence Day celebration in Palau was truly amazing,” said Stevick Patris, who highlighted the community’s participation in dances, games such as tug-of-war, and a fireworks display. He added that the opening ceremony, featuring the Palau National Anthem sung by Kyrah Nestor, stood out as a memorable moment.
Jazmyne, 18, said she enjoyed the food offerings and noted the convenience of booths accepting card payments. “My favorite part of the event was the Pacific Partnership Band that played after the event; I enjoyed my time listening a lot,” she said.
One parent described the day as “pretty nice” and well organized. “The vendors were pretty nice, and all the kids were just playing all over the place and there was no trouble caused,” the parent said. “My highlight was watching all my girls participate in the event, from singing the anthem to the two little ones selling coconut and lemonade.”
The fair ran from 11:30 a.m. to 5:55 p.m. and was part of the broader Independence Day celebration that included cultural programs and community activities across the country.