Australia

Holidays & Observances in Australia

Australia is a continent and country in the South Pacific Ocean. It is the largest island in the world, and the smallest continent in the world. Though Australia gained its independence from The United Kingdom in 1901, it still recognizes the British Queen as sovereign. As such, most holidays celebrated in Australia stem from celebrations in the United Kingdom, for instance, Australia celebrates the Queen’s Birthday on the second Monday in June. Over 50% of the Australian population identifies themselves as Christian, so Christian holidays are widely practiced throughout the country. There are also small populations of Muslim, Buddhist, Hindu, and Jewish Australians who celebrate their own holidays.