"Embrace Our Unique Cultural Heritage", is the theme for a tourism Festival to be hosted by the Tonga Visitors Bureau in Vava'u, Ha'apai, 'Eua and Tongatapu before Christmas.

The festival will start in Vava'u from December 8-9, then Ha'apai December 11-12, 'Eua December 14-15, and Tongatapu December 17-18.

Lavinia Helepiko, the festival coordinator, said that the program varies for each island group. "In Vava'u apart from the traditional dancing competitions there will be a float parade, a weaving competition and handicraft display.

"In 'Eua the program will coincide with the 'Eua National Park Week on December 14-19, and there will be cultural dancing.

She said that the two-days program for Tongatapu on December 17-18 will include Tongan dance such as the tau'olunga, 'otuhaka and mako to be performed by floorshow groups. "The program held at Pangai Lahi will also include a Talent Singing competition for youths."

Lavinia said the Minister of Tourism initiated the festival last year to attract more tourists to Tonga. "People who visit Tonga from overseas in December are our Tongan families. We hope that by having such a festival more visitors could be attracted to come to Tonga to witness our unique cultural and heritage through dancing, singing and other activities during the festival."

"It is the Ministry of Tourism's belief that although Tonga does not have an amazing site to attract visitors in comparison to other countries with more beautiful beaches and resorts, we have a unique culture that we can showcase and this is the purpose of the festival," said Lavinia.

The final program for the Tonga Cultural Festival will be confirmed later this week.