The week-long 4th Micronesian Expo took place on Yap from July 21–25, 2025.
This one-of-a-kind celebration of culture, tradition, and island pride brought together all of the Federated States of Micronesia island states – Yap, Chuuk, Pohnpei and Kosrae – for a celebration of their shared heritage through traditional dance, cuisine, cultural and historical presentations, marine activities, and much more.
This year marked a significant milestone, as Yap becomes the final of the four (4) sister states of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) to host the event. Over the past three years successful Expos have been held in Pohnpei, Kosrae, and Chuuk.
The Expo not only showcases the diverse talents, traditions and innovations of Micronesia, but is a coming together of local and regional businesses, traditional leaders, community organizations and individuals across all of the islands to meet, plan and build upon these traditions and culture to reinforce the importance of preserving and advancing this shared cultural heritage. To meet modern challenges and create a prosperous economy and nurturing communities that preserves and supports future generations and to remind us, as Micronesians, that sustaining our indigenous knowledge, practices and skills is essential – especially at a time when the world is seeking healthier, more sustainable ways of living that our ancestors have long understood.
This gathering not only showcases the diverse talents, traditions and innovations of Micronesia, but it also reinforces the importance of preserving and advancing our shared cultural heritage s Micronesians, we are reminded that sustaining our indigenous knowledge, practices and skills is essential – especially at a time when the world is seeking healthier, more sustainable ways of living that our ancestors have long understood.
In the words of the Acting Governor of Yap State Francis Itimai, ….” Good evening.. welcome to the closing ceremony of the 4th Micronesia Exposition, proudly hosted by Yap, the Land of Stone Money. Our shared Identity, our enduring energy and vibrant cultures that define the Federated States of Micronesia. This exposition was not merely an event, but a living extension of who we are as people, our diverse languages and traditions brought together by history, purpose and hope.
“As we have seen in the previous days of the Expo my people of Yap humbly embrace its legacy to host this major event with humility and joy. We welcome you all to our shores with open arms and with open hearts and as we bring to a close this memorial fourth FSM Exposition here in Yap let us not just reflect but to celebrate our unity that carried us here, the culture, pride that has filled these days and shared hope that defines our future. This Exposition has been a remarkable celebration of who we are, the proud people of Kosrae, Pohnpei, Chuuk and Yap – the many hues of our identity from the songs of our ancestors to the innovation of our youth we witness a vibrant expression Micronesian resilience and creativity. I extend heartfelt gratitude to each performer, artisan, organizer and participant who made this event unforgettable, your spirit reminded us that even across vast seas our hearts beat In unison. To our friends from overseas, thank you so much, your presence touched us deeply and your journey to be with us speak volumes about ties we share and the bridges we continue to build. Your commitment to supporting our communities and celebrating our culture gives us strength.”….
In a fitting farewell to all who joined the 4th Micronesian Expo, Yap and Micronesia’s historic seafaring culture was shared in a celebration of traditional canoe building skills and rides on the last day of the Expo. The skills of Micronesia’s Master Navigators that populated and created the diverse Pacific Island communities and cultures are still taught and practiced in Micronesia today, and nowhere more so than Yap!
