Decoration Day

Decoration Day in Liberia: A Deep Dive into Our National Day of Remembrance

Decoration Day is one of the most significant and emotionally charged national holidays in the Republic of Liberia. It is a day deeply woven into the fabric of our national identity, serving as a bridge between the living and the dead. For Liberians, this is not just another day off from work; it is a sacred time for reflection, a moment to honor the ancestors who paved the way for our existence, and a solemn occasion to pay tribute to the heroes and heroines who sacrificed their lives for the survival and progress of the Lone Star nation. From the bustling streets of Monrovia to the quiet, palm-shaded graveyards in the hinterlands, the entire country pauses to remember those who are no longer with us.

What makes Decoration Day truly special is its unique blend of national patriotism and deeply personal family ritual. It is a day characterized by a paradox of emotions—the morning often begins with the somber sounds of weeping and the rhythmic scraping of hoes against the earth, while the afternoon may transition into a celebration of life, filled with storytelling and community bonding. This tradition transcends tribal, religious, and social boundaries, uniting all Liberians in a common act of veneration. Whether one is a descendant of the settlers or belongs to the indigenous ethnic groups, the "country people," the obligation to care for the final resting places of the departed is a duty that is taken with the utmost seriousness.

The essence of the day lies in the physical act of "decorating." This involves more than just placing flowers; it is a comprehensive cleaning and restoration of gravesites. In a tropical climate like ours, where the bush grows rapidly and the heavy rains can wear down even the sturdiest headstones, the annual intervention of Decoration Day is crucial for preserving the physical memory of the deceased. It is a day when the silence of the cemeteries is replaced by the chatter of families working together, ensuring that their loved ones are not forgotten by the passage of time or the encroachment of the wilderness.

When is Decoration Day in 2026?

Decoration Day is a moveable feast in the Liberian calendar, though it follows a strictly defined schedule. According to the law, it is observed every year on the second Wednesday of March. This timing is strategic, falling during the heart of the dry season, which allows for outdoor activities and cemetery maintenance before the heavy rains of April and May begin.

For the upcoming observance:

• Day of the week: Wednesday
• Date: March 11, 2026
• Countdown: There are 67 days remaining until the holiday.

Because the holiday is tied to the "second Wednesday" rather than a specific calendar date, the exact day changes every year. This ensures that the holiday always falls mid-week, providing a dedicated day of service and remembrance that does not interfere with Sunday worship services, which are also central to Liberian life.

The Historical Origins of Decoration Day

The roots of Decoration Day in Liberia are as old as the republic itself, reflecting the complex history of the nation. The holiday was officially established by an Act of the National Legislature on October 24, 1916. However, the practices associated with the day predated the law by decades.

When the freed African Americans and people of Caribbean descent (the settlers) began arriving on the shores of West Africa in 1822, they brought with them many customs from the 19th-century American South. One of these was the tradition of "Decoration Day," which was common in the Southern Appalachian regions. In its original context, it was a day for families to gather, clean churchyards, and place flowers on graves. Over time, this tradition blended with the deep-seated ancestral veneration practices of the indigenous Liberian populations. For many of the local ethnic groups, the spirits of the ancestors remain active participants in the lives of the living, and failing to honor them can lead to misfortune or a lack of blessings.

The 1916 Act codified these sentiments, designating a specific day to commemorate those who "lived and died in the interest of the Liberian Nation." This included the early pioneers who battled disease and conflict to establish the settlement, the statesmen who signed the Declaration of Independence in 1847, and the countless soldiers and citizens who defended the sovereignty of the nation. In the modern era, the scope of the day has expanded to include the victims of our civil crises and the heroes of the health sector who fell during the Ebola and COVID-19 pandemics.

How Liberians Observe Decoration Day

The observation of Decoration Day is a multi-sensory experience that begins long before the sun rises. The day is marked by specific rituals and communal activities that define the Liberian experience.

The Presidential Proclamation and Flag Protocol

Every year, the President of the Republic of Liberia issues a formal proclamation declaring the second Wednesday of March as Decoration Day. This proclamation is not just a legal formality; it is a call to the nation to reflect on the virtues of patriotism and the importance of family bonds.

A key aspect of the official observance is the flag protocol. The National Ensign (the Lone Star flag) is ordered to be flown at half-mast on all public buildings, military camps, and private residences. This occurs from 12:01 AM until 5:30 PM. This visual symbol of national mourning serves as a constant reminder throughout the day of the solemnity of the occasion.

Cemetery Cleanups: The Heart of the Tradition

The most visible activity takes place in the cemeteries. From the historic Palm Grove Cemetery on Center Street in Monrovia to small family plots in rural villages, thousands of people descend upon burial grounds armed with tools. The activities typically include:

• Brushing and Clearing: Using cutlasses (machetes) and hoes to clear away the overgrown grass, weeds, and tropical brush that may have overtaken the graves during the year.
• Cleaning and Scrubbing: Families bring buckets of soapy water, brushes, and cleaning agents to scrub the mold and dirt off headstones and concrete tombs.
• Painting and Repairing: It is common to see people applying a fresh coat of whitewash or bright paint to the tombs. In cases where graves have been damaged by weather or vandalism, families use the day to make necessary repairs.
• Decoration: Once the site is clean, the "decoration" begins. This involves laying wreaths (often made of plastic or silk to withstand the sun), fresh flowers, and sometimes personal items that the deceased enjoyed in life.

The Spiritual and Social Atmosphere

The morning hours are usually the most somber. Many people can be seen weeping over the graves of recently departed relatives, and it is common for families to offer prayers or hold short memorial services at the graveside. In many communities, pastors or deacons go from grave to grave to offer blessings for a small fee or as a service to their congregation.

As the day progresses, the atmosphere often shifts. Once the hard work of cleaning is done, the cemetery becomes a place of social gathering. Families who may not have seen each other since the previous year use this time to catch up. Stories about the ancestors are shared with the younger generation, ensuring that the family history is passed down. In some areas, this leads to a more festive environment in the afternoon, with people sharing food and drinks near the cemetery gates, celebrating the lives that were lived rather than just mourning their end.

The Cultural Significance and the "Ancestral Connection"

In Liberia, the connection between the living and the dead is considered a continuous cycle. This is particularly true for the "country people" or the indigenous communities. In many traditional beliefs, the ancestors act as intermediaries between the physical world and the divine. Decoration Day provides a formal opportunity to "commune" with these spirits.

The importance of this connection was highlighted during the 2014 Ebola outbreak. At that time, many traditional burial practices were suspended to prevent the spread of the virus. However, when Decoration Day arrived, the government had to make special allowances for people to visit gravesites (within safety protocols) because the cultural anxiety of "neglecting the dead" was so high. Many Liberians believe that if you do not "fix the grave" of your parents or elders, you will face bad luck or "hard time" in your personal and business affairs. Thus, Decoration Day serves as a form of spiritual insurance and a way to maintain "good standing" with the spirit world.

For the youth, the President’s proclamation often emphasizes that by looking at the lives of those who came before, they can find inspiration for the future. It is a day intended to foster "Patriotism and a sense of belonging," reminding every citizen that they are part of a long lineage of resilient people.

Practical Information for Visitors and Expats

If you are a foreigner, a diplomat, or an expatriate living in Liberia during Decoration Day, it is important to understand the etiquette of the day to avoid giving offense.

1. Respect the Solemnity: While the afternoon can get lively, the morning is a time of genuine grief for many. If you are near a cemetery, keep noise levels down and avoid taking photos of people who are visibly mourning or praying over a grave.
2. Participation: If you have Liberian friends, they may invite you to join them in cleaning a family grave. This is a sign of great trust and inclusion. If you participate, dress modestly and be prepared for physical labor. Bringing water or cleaning supplies to contribute is always appreciated.
3. Business Closures: Be aware that almost all government offices and schools will be closed. Many private businesses, especially those owned by Liberians, will also be closed or will operate with very limited hours. Plan your errands and grocery shopping for the Tuesday before.
4. Traffic and Crowds: Areas around major cemeteries, especially in Monrovia (like the bypass near Palm Grove or the cemeteries in Congo Town and Paynesville), will be extremely crowded. Traffic congestion is common, so plan your movements accordingly.
5. Photography: Always ask for permission before photographing graves or people. Some families consider the gravesite to be a private, sacred space, even if it is in a public cemetery.

Is Decoration Day a Public Holiday?

Yes, Decoration Day is a statutory public holiday in the Republic of Liberia.

What this means for the public:

• Government Offices: All ministries, agencies, and commissions of the Liberian government are closed for the day.
• Schools: All public and private schools, from kindergarten through university, are closed.
• Labor Laws: Under Liberian labor law, this is a paid day off for employees. Those who are required to work (such as essential services, security, or hospitality) are typically entitled to holiday pay or a compensatory day off.
• Commercial Activity: While large supermarkets and some international businesses might stay open for half a day, the majority of local commerce shuts down so that employees can attend to their family graves.
• The "Half-Mast" Requirement: As mentioned, the flying of the flag at half-mast is a mandatory legal requirement for public buildings and is strongly encouraged for private residences as a sign of national unity.

Decoration Day remains one of the most authentically Liberian holidays. It predates the American Memorial Day and has evolved into something uniquely our own—a day of sweat, tears, paint, and flowers. It is the day we ensure that the names of our fathers and mothers are not washed away by the rain, and that the story of Liberia continues to be told through the memories of those who built it. As we approach March 11, 2026, 2026, the nation prepares once again to honor the silent heroes of our past, ensuring that their legacy remains a guiding light for the "Lone Star" state.