Thanksgiving Day in Guam
Thanksgiving is listed in Guam law as a holiday on the fourth Thursday in November. The Judiciary of Guam and territorial revenue offices observe it. Check opening hours and customs with local businesses or residents.[1][2][3]
A holiday in Guam’s calendar
Guam’s code lists Thanksgiving among the holidays of Guam and sets it on the fourth Thursday in November. The same law says that when a listed holiday falls on a Saturday or Sunday, the Government of Guam follows the federal government’s practice for that holiday. Since Thanksgiving is set on a Thursday, that weekend rule does not change its weekday observance.[1]
The holiday appears in the Judiciary of Guam’s official holiday schedule, and the Judiciary’s personnel rules describe Thanksgiving as the fourth Thursday in November. Guam’s Department of Revenue and Taxation also lists Thanksgiving among its observed holidays when its offices close. These sources establish observance by those public offices; they do not establish that every worker has the day off.[2][3]
Guam’s history and local context
Guam is a U.S. territory. The Organic Act of 1950 granted U.S. citizenship to the people of Guam and established a civilian government with executive, legislative and judicial branches. The holiday law identifies Thanksgiving as part of Guam’s calendar.[5][1]
Guam’s local context includes CHamoru culture and food traditions. The Guam Visitors Bureau identifies red rice, chicken kelaguen and barbecue as local food essentials.[4]
What visitors can expect
The Judiciary’s holiday schedule confirms that the courts observe Thanksgiving, and the Department of Revenue and Taxation identifies the day as one of its closure dates. For court filings or revenue services, plan around those closures and check the relevant office’s schedule before making a trip.[2][3]
Visitors can ask their host or restaurant about Thanksgiving menus.[4]
Frequently asked questions
When is Thanksgiving Day in Guam?
It is listed in Guam law for the fourth Thursday in November. The law says the Government of Guam follows federal practice if a listed holiday falls on a weekend; Thanksgiving itself is a Thursday.[1]
Do Government of Guam offices and courts observe the holiday?
Are banks, shops and restaurants open?
Check directly with the bank, shop or restaurant you plan to visit.[4]
What food is served at Thanksgiving in Guam?
Red rice, chicken kelaguen and barbecue are local CHamoru food essentials. Ask your host or restaurant about its Thanksgiving menu.[4]
Sources and references
Sources used for Thanksgiving Day in Guam:
- Public Law 26-157- Guam Legislature
- Judiciary Hours & Holidays- Judiciary of Guam
- Help- Department of Revenue and Taxation, Government of Guam
- About Guam | Guam Travel Guide to Culture & Nature- Guam Visitors Bureau
- THE ORGANIC ACT OF GUAM- Department of Land Management, Government of Guam