Decoration Day in Liberia
Liberia observes Decoration Day on the second Wednesday in March as a national holiday. It honors the country’s past heroes and heroines, remembering people who lived and died in the interest of Liberia and recognizing their contributions to society and the state.[1]
A national holiday set by law
An Act of the National Legislature approved on October 24, 1916, designated the second Wednesday in March as Decoration Day. Liberia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs describes it as a national holiday observed throughout the republic.[1]
The observance is intended to keep the deeds and contributions of national figures in public memory. Official statements connect remembrance with service to Liberia and the continuing advancement of the state.[1]
Public tributes and cemetery visits
Official commemorations have included processions to graves and memorial sites in Monrovia. A Ministry of Education program described by the Foreign Ministry included students and government staff visiting the graves of former presidents, a state cenotaph, and Palm Grove Cemetery.[1]
Presidential observances have also involved visiting cemeteries and laying wreaths at the graves of family members, friends, and former public figures. In one reported observance, President Weah visited several cemeteries in Monrovia and its environs to pay homage to people he had known and national leaders.[2]
Another official account records wreath laying and prayers at graves and a monument, alongside a call for Liberians to observe the day in peace and harmony.[3] These examples show that public tributes and personal remembrance can both form part of the day; families and communities may observe it in different ways.
Planning around the holiday
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs identifies Decoration Day as a national holiday throughout Liberia and has reported official memorial programming involving ministries, agencies, organizations, and the public.[1] Travelers should check with individual services for their holiday hours.
Frequently asked questions
When is Decoration Day in Liberia?
It is observed on the second Wednesday in March each year.[1]
What does Decoration Day commemorate?
It honors Liberia’s past heroes and heroines, including people who lived and died in the interest of the country.[1]
What happens during official commemorations?
Are banks, shops, and transport services open?
Check with each bank, shop, or transport service directly for its holiday hours.[1]
Sources and references
Sources used for Decoration Day in Liberia:
- Wednesday, March 9th Is “Decoration Day”; To Be Observed as National Holiday- Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Liberia
- President Weah Pays Homage to Fallen Liberians, As He Makes Round on Decoration Day- Executive Mansion, Republic of Liberia
- President Weah Pays Tribute to Fallen National Heroes, Heroines, Beloveth- Executive Mansion, Republic of Liberia