Liberia’s Thanksgiving – A Tale of History and Healing

When American Traditions Take Root in African Soil

Liberia is one of the few African nations that formally celebrates “Thanksgiving.” Unlike its West African neighbors whose harvest festivals evolved organically, Liberia’s version was introduced by freed African-American and Afro-Caribbean settlers in the 19th century.

Held on the first Thursday of November, Liberian Thanksgiving resembles its American counterpart in timing, but not in tone. While some see it as a day off, others treat it as a spiritual observance to give thanks to God. Meals may include cassava, chicken stews, and traditional dishes rather than turkey and pie.

Yet Liberia’s Thanksgiving also bears the weight of history. For many, it’s a reminder of the tension between the elite “Congau” class—descendants of settlers—and indigenous communities whose traditions were often suppressed. As a result, some Liberians approach the holiday with ambivalence or use it as a moment to reflect on past injustices.

Despite its complexities, Liberia’s Thanksgiving reveals a universal truth: across borders and histories, the act of gratitude remains powerful. Food unites, even in the face of fractured pasts—and healing can start at the dinner table.