John Frum Day is observed in Vanuatu every February 15, celebrating the beliefs of the cargo cult that emerged in the 1930s when the region was known as the New Hebrides. The cult centers around the figure of John Frum, who is said to have promised followers houses, food, transport, and clothes, contingent upon their rejection of European societal norms. The movement gained prominence in the 1940s, particularly during World War II, when American soldiers brought significant supplies to the islands. After the war, followers constructed symbolic landing strips in hopes of attracting American airplanes to deliver cargo. The day is marked by symbolic military parades, reflecting the followers' belief that John Frum will return to fulfill his promises and bring goods to the island.