Cook Islands Constitution Day is celebrated annually on August 4th. This public holiday marks the day when the Cook Islands became a self-governing nation in free association with New Zealand. Constitution Day is the final and most anticipated part of ‘Te Maeva Nui,’ a week-long national event highlighting Cook Islands culture, history, and heritage. The Ministry of Cultural Development coordinates events, including concerts, traditional reed dances, float parades, choir performances, cookouts, and communal sports games. Many Cook Islanders who live in Australia and New Zealand travel back to their country to partake in the festivities. Constitution Day is undoubtedly the highest national holiday in the Cook Islands, with a week of fun and festivities leading up to the special day.