Thanksgiving in Liberia is an annual observance on the first Thursday of November to thank God for His blessings and mercy, and this year, it falls on November 3. The day has its roots originating from when Liberia used to be a colony of the American Colonization Society. The Afro-Americans of Liberia, under the heavy influence of the Americans, adopted this day and have continued to observe Thanksgiving as a gesture of being thankful to God, caring for the people, and praying for their well-being.
History of Thanksgiving Liberia
Liberia was a project of the American Colonization Society back in the 19th century which believed that black people would have better chances of freedom and prosperity in Africa instead of America. Between 1822 to 1861, the American Civil War paved the way for 15,000 black Americans and around 4,000 Caribbean Africans to relocate to Liberia.Since the arrival of these people in Liberia, the country has developed an American-Liberian identity. Liberia was the first African republic to gain independence but retained the inherited tradition of celebrating Thanksgiving among other American traditions and has continued to celebrate to date.The country enacted a legislature in 1883 in which it was made official that the first Thursday of November would be celebrated as Thanksgiving Day every year. Ever since the Presidential proclamation is made every year on account of Thanksgiving. Being a predominantly Christian country, Liberia has many Muslims living in the country, so every year, the proclamation calls upon all the bishops, imams, and priests living in the country to come together to give thanks for God’s blessings and mercy.Thanksgiving is a national holiday in Liberia. Although it is an American tradition, and it is celebrated in the same original American style, over the years, it has adopted the local African cultural touches.
Thanksgiving Liberia timeline
Liberia declares independence from the U.S. on July 26.
In the National Legislature of the Republic of Liberia, it is officially proclaimed that Thanksgiving will be celebrated annually.
Since the national level legislature, the country observes its 100th official Thanksgiving holiday.
This year’s Thanksgiving falls on November 4.
Thanksgiving Liberia FAQs
What is a holiday tradition in Liberia?
Every holiday in Liberia is celebrated with parties, dancing, musical performances, traditional drumming, eating, drinking, fireworks, and bonfires.
What other dishes do Liberians have on Thanksgiving?
Liberians also serve dishes like roasted chicken, green bean casserole, and mashed cassava.
What language is spoken in Liberia?
English is the official language spoken by Liberians.
Thanksgiving Liberia Activities
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Pray
The best way to celebrate Thanksgiving is by praying to God and giving thanks to him for all He has given us. What are you waiting for?
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Roast a chicken, or beans, or both
Although Liberians have adopted Thanksgiving from the Americans, adding a cultural cuisine like roasted chicken would be a good idea. It’s delicious!
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Organize a feast
Call in your family and friends and have a feast together. Share the good times and praise the Lord.
5 Important Facts About Thanksgiving
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The first Thanksgiving
The first Thanksgiving was celebrated over a three-day harvest festival — there were 50 pilgrims, 90 Wampanoag Indians, and only five women at the festival
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2,500 calories
On average, around 2,500 calories are consumed on Thanksgiving day alone.
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Dumboy and Fufu
Dumboy (boiled and then pounded cassava) and Fufu (a derivative of cassava) has been the staple side dishes for Thanksgiving.
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Fruit festival
It is a custom to bring fruit from the local produce to the church on Thanksgiving and then auction it.
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Turkey is not consumed in Liberia
There is no concept of having a turkey as a thanksgiving special in Liberia.
Why We Love Thanksgiving Liberia
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It is a feast
There should be at least one fine evening when family members and friends get together and host a big feast. We love get-togethers!
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It reminds us of the Lord’s Blessings
Most of the time, we humans are so ignorant about the blessings the Lord has blessed us with. This day reminds us to be thankful for everything we have.
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It is a holiday
Who does not like a holiday? A day off from work. A day to attend mass and relax while spending time with the family and eating delicious meals.
Thanksgiving Liberia dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | November 3 | Thursday |
| 2023 | November 2 | Thursday |
| 2024 | November 7 | Thursday |
| 2025 | November 6 | Thursday |
| 2026 | November 5 | Thursday |
