It is now 13 days to Christmas, the biggest holiday event in the country. Samoa Observer journalist Faith Leapai and photojournalist Junior S Ami spoke to people about how they intend to spend Christmas this year. The majority feel the best way to spend Christmas is by being home and close to loved ones.

Namulau'ulu Nikolao Lino, 37, Si'usamoa, Savaii 

"Nothing is going on in our village, particularly on the island of Savaii. We are simply anticipating the significance of Christmas, which is spending time with our families. We celebrate the arrival of Jesus Christ and, as Christians, we live together and spend time with our families. Our Heavenly Father has called a family member home, and our family is also having problems. As a result, we are eager to return to Savaii to celebrate Christmas with our family and honour life at home. Being able to spend time with your family and share everything with them is the essence of Christmas."

Fui Fui, 55, Safata 

"I want to spend Christmas with my children who live abroad and spend time with them because they aren't coming to celebrate in Samoa. They have paid for my visa and my flight to visit them abroad. Having time to spend with loved ones is what Christmas is all about. Since we have gone this far and the year 2024 is almost over, we should also give thanks to the Lord for protecting and directing us. This year's tension and labour have finally come to an end therefore, it's time to enjoy life, give yourself some time to enjoy it, and spend time with your loved ones."

Star, 23, Sasina Savaii

"This Christmas, I have a lot of plans, but I'm not sure if I'll return to Savaii or perhaps travel abroad to be with my wife and kids. Christmas is about the arrival of the newborn Jesus to fill our hearts and make our families happy, not about lights, fireworks, presents, or anything else. I'm not sure if I'll be able to travel abroad to see my wife and kids because many of our family are coming to Samoa to celebrate Christmas with our parents. I am anticipating what God has in store for us this Christmas."

Sita Amate, 50, Matautu Falelatai 

"Christmas is quickly approaching, and I am enthusiastic about it because Jesus was born on 25 December and I was born on 24 December. This year, on the 24th, I will turn 51, therefore I will have to wait until the 25th to join Jesus in celebrating his birthday. Every year on Christmas, we go and see our students play, attend the youth and Sunday school game day, and also get a chance to gather with friends and family. The spirit of Christmas has changed from previous years. I'm wishing our nation a joyous Christmas and a prosperous New Year."

Pauline Aumuatoesefa’itau, 24, Lepa Aleipata.  

"Our village is getting ready for Christmas celebrations, such as families lighting up the village to let everyone know that the holiday is approaching and the women's committee decorating the land to help before Christmas. I believe this is a good way for our village to demonstrate that there is still a sense of Christmas in our homes, not just with our families but with our village and its residents. By doing these activities in our community, we will also spread the word about Christmas. In addition, we intend to travel to Savaii for our saofa'i and celebrate with our local families."

Kelsie Von, 20, USA

"I am spending just ten days in Samoa on vacation. After three days here, I should say that my vacation wasn't too horrible, but I still want to return so I can see the nation and its kind citizens. Samoa is a vibrant nation, and I believe I have chosen the ideal destination for my vacation. I want to return to the United States on 20 December to spend time with my parents. Before I return, I also intend to visit Savaii because I've heard you've never gone to Samoa until you visit Savai'i. I've never visited Savaii. People in Samoa are incredibly compassionate and supportive of one another, which sets them apart from other nations. Before returning home to be with my family, I intend to spend some time exploring Samoa."

Mercy Ne'emia, 19, Fasito'o Uta.

"Our youth are organising a youth event with Faleasi'u. Additionally, our community is hosting a competition to clean each family's land. Preparing for Christmas and spending it with Faleasi'u youth is a lot of joy for our young people. To experience the spirit of Christmas, we are excited to spend the holiday with new people and come together as a group."