Thanksgiving Liberia 2023: Thanksgiving is observed annually in Liberia on November 2, which occurs on the first Thursday of November. Its purpose is to express gratitude to God for His blessings and mercy. The holiday’s inception can be traced back to the time when Liberia was an American Colonization Society colony. The Afro-Americans of Liberia adopted this holiday after receiving significant American influence, and they have since kept it as a way to express their gratitude to God, care for others, and pray for their well-being.
Thanksgiving Liberia History
In the 19th century, the American Colonization Society established Liberia with the belief that African Americans would be more prosperous and liberated than their American counterparts. The American Civil War, which lasted from 1822 to 1861, facilitated the migration of approximately 4,000 Caribbean Africans and 15,000 black Americans to Liberia.
Following the advent of these individuals, Liberia has come to embody an American-Liberian identity. Although Liberia achieved independence first among African republics, it has maintained the American tradition of Thanksgiving celebrations, among others, which it inherited and continues to observe to this day.
In 1883, a legislative act was passed designating the initial Thursday of November as the official observance of Thanksgiving Day annually. Since then, the Presidential Proclamation has been issued annually in observance of Thanksgiving. Liberia, a predominantly Christian nation, is home to a significant Muslim population; therefore, the proclamation annually convenes all the bishops, imams, and priests to unite in gratitude for the benevolence and grace of God.
Liberia observes Thanksgiving as a national holiday. Despite being an American tradition and being observed in traditional American fashion, it has gradually incorporated elements of local African culture over time.
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FAQs on Thanksgiving Liberia 2023
What is a Liberian festival custom?
In Liberia, celebrations of every holiday include bonfires, pyrotechnics, parties, dancing, musical performances, traditional drumming, eating, and drinking.
What additional dishes are served on Thanksgiving in Liberia?
In addition to pureed cassava and roasted chicken, Liberians also serve green bean casserole.
What is the official vernacular of Liberia?
Officially, English is the language of communication in Liberia.
Appreciating Liberian Activities
Pray
Thanksgiving is best observed through sincere gratitude and prayer to God for everything He has given us. What are your expectations?
Roast beans, poultry, or both.
Although Liberians have adopted Thanksgiving from the United States of America, it would be a good idea to include a local dish like roasted poultry. It tastes excellent!
Coordinate a feast
Gather your close friends and family for a communal feast. Praise the Lord and share in the happy times.
Five Essential Facts Regarding Thanksgiving
Initial Thanksgiving
A three-day harvest ceremony was held in observance of the first Thanksgiving; only five women, 90 Wampanoag Indians, and fifty pilgrims attended.
2,500 milligrams
On Thanksgiving day alone, approximately 2,500 calories are consumed on average.
Fumboy and Dumboy
On Thanksgiving, dumbly (pounded and stewed cassava) and fufu (a cassava derivative) have been the traditional side dishes.
Celebration of fruit
It is customary to donate locally sourced fruit to the church for auction on Thanksgiving.
Liberia does not consume turkey.
The practice of preparing a Thanksgiving poultry special does not exist in Liberia.
THANKSGIVING LIBERIA DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | November 2 | Thursday |
| 2024 | November 7 | Thursday |
| 2025 | November 6 | Thursday |
| 2026 | November 5 | Thursday |
