No matter where you live, there are always things you like and things you don't. Every new place has good and bad points, it all depends on your perspective. Guam is no different. There are cultural differences to overcome, the climate will likely be different than any you've ever experienced and living on a small island may not appeal to you at first. Surprisingly though, many of the people that don't care much for living here at first, end up as permanent residents.

Festivals

The people of Guam, known as Chamorros, are a happy, friendly people. There's nothing they like more than a festival! The Spanish heritage is still very much evident today, with each of the 19 villages having its own patron saint whose feast day is celebrated with an elaborate fiesta. Usually this continues throughout the week, with an array of local delicacies, music and good cheer. Everyone is welcome to participate.

Holidays and festivals are a big part of life on the island of Guam. Just like on the mainland, residents celebrate traditional U.S. holidays such as New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Day, Presidents Day, Memorial and Labor Day, July Fourth and Christmas.

One holiday unique to the island is Liberation Day celebrated on July 21st. This holiday commemorates the day in 1944 when U.S. forces recaptured Guam from the Japanese. The week before the 21st is marked with festivals and carnivals celebrating this day with a large parade being held the night of Liberation Day in the capital city of Hagåtña.

Many other festivals open to all are held during the months from April to October, especially in the southern villages. One of the more popular events is the Malojloj Fiesta held in Inarajan. Held in May, this festival lasts for three days and is packed with food and music.