Thanksgiving in Liberia
Liberia observes Thanksgiving as a national holiday on the first Thursday in November. The date is set by an 1883 legislative act, and official proclamations describe the day as an occasion for the nation to give thanks and pray.[1]
A national holiday in November
Liberia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs says an Act of the National Legislature enacted in 1883 established the first Thursday of November as National Thanksgiving Day. The government describes it as a national holiday observed throughout the Republic.[1]
A Liberian government agency’s staff manual lists Thanksgiving as a paid public holiday when its employees are not required to work. The manual says that when a national holiday falls on a Sunday, the following day is the official holiday; Thanksgiving’s fixed Thursday schedule does not fall on Sunday.[3]
Meaning and history
Official proclamations frame the holiday around gratitude to God for the nation’s protection and blessings, and for the perseverance of its people. They call on the country to give thanks for its life as a nation and for protection during peace, disasters and natural events.[1]
The Executive Mansion has described national Thanksgiving observances as a time to pray for Liberia’s peace and unity. Its account of a national service at Providence Island connected the gathering to the place where settlers who created the Liberian state and modern government first disembarked from the United States.[2]
Worship and observance
A Foreign Ministry account of the proclamation calls on Liberians and foreign residents, religious leaders and religious organizations to gather in places of worship and offer praise. An Executive Mansion report documents a national service with government officials, international partners and ordinary Liberians, including hymns and prayers.[1][2]
Not everyone attends a service or follows one shared custom. Particular foods, family routines and regional differences are not established as standard Thanksgiving traditions in Liberia.[1][2]
Time off and practical planning
Thanksgiving is a national holiday, and a government agency staff manual lists it as a paid holiday for its employees. Check opening hours with the office, employer, bank, school or shop before you go.[1][3]
Travelers should check directly with offices and service providers before making plans.
Frequently asked questions
When is Thanksgiving in Liberia?
It is observed on the first Thursday in November each year.[1]
Is Thanksgiving a public holiday?
Are offices, banks and shops closed?
Sources and references
Sources used for Thanksgiving in Liberia:
- President Boakai Declares Thursday, Nov. 6, As “National Thanksgiving Day”- Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Liberia
- Pres. Weah Leads Nation In Thanksgiving- Executive Mansion, Republic of Liberia
- Administrative Manual & Organogram- Public Procurement and Concessions Commission, Republic of Liberia