Thanksgiving Day in Turks And Caicos Islands
On the fourth Friday in November, Thanksgiving Day is celebrated in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Although the date of this holiday and its name may lead some people to think that it’s essentially the same as American Thanksgiving, there are significant differences between these two holidays.
Turks and Caicos Islands (Public holiday)For one, the date of American Thanksgiving is different; it is observed on the fourth Thursday in November, not the fourth Friday like this holiday. Another difference is that Turks and Caicos’ Thanksgiving is more about giving thanks in a religious sense, while the American holiday is more of a secular celebration.
The History Of Thanksgiving Day In Turks And Caicos
For years, this holiday was observed in Turks and Caicos as a day on which people could thank God for their good fortune over the course of the year. However, it didn’t become an official holiday until 2014. This is when the Prime Minister of the islands issued a declaration that made the National Day of Thanksgiving an official public holiday. It’s meant to be a religious holiday, not a secular one like American Thanksgiving.
Observing Thanksgiving Day In Turks And Caicos
Since this is a religious holiday, one of the main ways it’s celebrated is by people attending religious services to give thanks to God for being alive and for the blessings He has bestowed upon them. In Turks and Caicos, almost 73% of the population are Christians—with Baptists and members of the Church of God being the most prevalent.
People attending religious services usually dress up, go to religious services, and then conclude the day with a communal meal. The food served is quite similar to that served at the American equivalent of this holiday. There are pumpkin soups, turkey, cranberry sauces, and other such foods. Of course, there are also traditional Caribbean dishes that make their way into this meal, including fish and fruits.
Turks and Caicos Islands (Public holiday)
