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- First Thursday of November
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Liberia Thanksgiving is observed annually on the first Thursday of November, a day dedicated to thanking God for blessings and mercy. Rooted in the nation’s history as a colony of the American Colonization Society, this observance reflects a deep commitment to gratitude, community care, and prayer for well-being. Join in this unique celebration by reflecting on your own blessings and supporting Liberian communities.
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Expected Liberia Thanksgiving Deals
Liberia Thanksgiving is primarily a day for spiritual reflection and community gathering rather than commercial deals. However, local Liberian-owned businesses, particularly restaurants and grocery stores specializing in West African cuisine, may see increased patronage as families prepare traditional feasts. Community organizations often host charitable events and food drives to ensure everyone can partake in the spirit of gratitude. Consider donating to organizations supporting Liberian communities. We will update this page with confirmed live community events and support opportunities as November approaches.
Platform Guide for Liberia Thanksgiving
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #LiberiaThanksgiving. Share photos of your traditional Liberian Thanksgiving meals, family gatherings, and community service efforts.
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Mention @NatlToday and use #LiberiaThanksgiving. Tweet about the historical significance of the day, share messages of gratitude, and promote community events.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #LiberiaThanksgiving. Connect with Liberian diaspora groups, share stories of thankfulness, and organize virtual prayer meetings or potlucks.
Liberia Thanksgiving Hero
Joseph Jenkins Roberts
History of Liberia Thanksgiving
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.
Liberia Thanksgiving 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.
Liberia Thanksgiving FAQs
When is Liberia Thanksgiving?
In 2026, Liberia Thanksgiving falls on Thursday, November 5. It’s a day dedicated to giving thanks for blessings and mercy, with roots in the nation’s unique history.
Why does Liberia celebrate Thanksgiving?
Liberia celebrates Thanksgiving due to its historical ties as a colony of the American Colonization Society. The Afro-American settlers brought the tradition, adapting it to express gratitude to God for blessings, care for the people, and prayers for well-being.
How is Liberia Thanksgiving different from American Thanksgiving?
While both holidays share a theme of gratitude, Liberia Thanksgiving is observed on the first Thursday of November, whereas American Thanksgiving is on the fourth. Liberia’s observance has a more pronounced religious focus, emphasizing prayer and divine blessings, and is less commercialized than its American counterpart.
Is Liberia Thanksgiving a public holiday?
Yes, Liberia Thanksgiving is a national public holiday in Liberia. It is a day when government offices, schools, and many businesses close, allowing people to participate in religious services and family gatherings.
Liberia Thanksgiving Activities
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?
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!
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
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
2,500 calories
On average, around 2,500 calories are consumed on Thanksgiving day alone.
Dumboy and Fufu
Dumboy (boiled and then pounded cassava) and Fufu (a derivative of cassava) has been the staple side dishes for Thanksgiving.
Fruit festival
It is a custom to bring fruit from the local produce to the church on Thanksgiving and then auction it.
Turkey is not consumed in Liberia
There is no concept of having a turkey as a thanksgiving special in Liberia.
Why We Love Liberia Thanksgiving
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!
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.
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.
Liberia Thanksgiving dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | November 6 | Thursday |
| 2026 | November 5 | Thursday |
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