Nadi was alive with energy over the weekend as thousands of Fijians and international visitors gathered at King Charles Park for the George ‘Fiji’ Veikoso Homecoming concert on Saturday and Sunday nights.
Hotels and accommodations in the greater Nadi area were fully booked, with business owners describing the weekend as one of the busiest periods in the town’s history.
The concert featured a mix of local and international artists, including J Boog, Josh Tatofi, Maoli, and George ‘Fiji’ Veikoso.
Saliceni Raiwalui, the chairperson of the Nadi Town Council and special administrator, remarked that it was one of the largest events ever hosted in the town. He expressed his gratitude for Nadi being selected to host such a significant occasion.
“I am 75 years old now, and I have never seen a crowd like the one at this homecoming concert,” Mr. Raiwalui said. “Witnessing everything that transpired at Prince Charles Park was awe-inspiring. Businesses thrived, taxi drivers were pleased, hotels and resorts were fully booked—it was a truly wonderful sight during this long weekend. The Nadi Town Council is grateful that events like this contribute to the growth of local businesses.”
Brent Hill, CEO of Tourism Fiji, noted that September is generally a busy month, and the homecoming concert added to an already fruitful tourism period for Fiji.
“The event certainly spurred flight and hotel bookings, which is fantastic to see,” Mr. Hill commented. “We look forward to collaborating with music promoters to bring more events to Fiji that can effectively attract tourists. Music tourism is recognized worldwide as a strong driver of tourism, alongside sports and adventure.”
Local artist Laisa Vulakoro, known as the Vude Queen, was also present at the concert and expressed delight in her experience.
“Everything was just amazing,” she said. “They had my dream stage and dream sound. It was all just incredible.”
Cabinet Ministers in attendance included Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica and Minister for Health Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu.