Governor Albert Bryan Jr. has approved administrative leave for all nonessential Government of the Virgin Islands employees on Friday, November 28, providing public servants with an extended Thanksgiving weekend from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., according to an announcement from Government House.

The governor framed the additional day as an opportunity for rest and personal time during the holiday weekend. He also encouraged the broader community to reflect on the significance of Thanksgiving and to use the long weekend to reconnect with loved ones.

“Thanksgiving calls us to pause and appreciate the blessings in our lives,” Governor Bryan said. “I urge everyone to take this time to rest, recharge, and enjoy your loved ones. Use a little of it to lift someone up—check on a neighbor, share a plate, make a call that matters. Gratitude is best when it moves our hands as well as our hearts.”

Government House noted that both Governor Bryan and Acting Governor Tregenza A. Roach are encouraging residents to observe the extended weekend with “thankful and reflective activities” while prioritizing safety throughout the holiday. Employees are expected to return to work on the following Monday as the government moves toward the close of the calendar year.