Memorial Day
Honor and remember the brave men and women who died serving in the U.S. military on Memorial Day. This solemn federal holiday is a time to reflect on the ultimate sacrifice made by service members to protect our freedoms. From visiting cemeteries to participating in parades, join in remembering those who gave their lives for our country.
About Memorial Day
Honor and remember the brave men and women who died serving in the U.S. military on Memorial Day. This solemn federal holiday is a time to reflect on the ultimate sacrifice made by service members to protect our freedoms. From visiting cemeteries to participating in parades, join in remembering those who gave their lives for our country.
History & origins
Memorial Day began in the United States after the Civil War as Decoration Day, a day to honor soldiers who died in the conflict. The first national observance was held on May 30, 1868, after General John A. Logan of the Grand Army of the Republic called for flowers to be placed on graves. New York was the first state to formally recognize the observance, and by the 1890s many states had adopted it. In 1971, the holiday was moved to the last Monday in May, and a National Moment of Remembrance at 3 p.m. local time was later established to encourage a shared pause of honor.
Why it matters
Memorial Day is a solemn reminder of the cost of military service and a public time to honor U.S. service members who died in war and peacetime service. It also shapes American civic life through cemetery visits, memorial ceremonies, and the National Moment of Remembrance, which helps keep remembrance central even during the start of summer.
How to celebrate
Visit national cemeteries or memorials to honor fallen service members. Participate in Memorial Day parades and ceremonies. Place flags or flowers on veterans' graves. Support military families and veteran organizations. Take a moment of silence at 3 PM for the National Moment of Remembrance.
Facts
- Memorial Day was originally called Decoration Day
- It originated after the Civil War to honor Union soldiers
- The holiday was moved to the last Monday in May in 1971
- Wearing red poppies on Memorial Day honors fallen soldiers
- The National Moment of Remembrance occurs at 3 PM local time
Upcoming dates
- Monday, May 25, 2026
- Tuesday, May 25, 2027
- Thursday, May 25, 2028
- Friday, May 25, 2029
- Saturday, May 25, 2030
Frequently asked questions
When is Memorial Day in 2026?
Memorial Day in 2026 is Monday, May 25, 2026. It is observed on the last Monday in May each year.
What is Memorial Day?
Memorial Day is a U.S. holiday that honors military personnel who died while serving in the armed forces. It is a day of remembrance, not a general celebration of all veterans.
Who started Memorial Day?
Memorial Day is generally traced to General John A. Logan and the Grand Army of the Republic in 1868. Logan issued the order that helped launch Decoration Day, the original name of the observance.
How do people celebrate Memorial Day?
People typically visit cemeteries and memorials, place flags or flowers on graves, and attend parades or remembrance ceremonies. Many also pause at 3 p.m. local time for the National Moment of Remembrance.
Is Memorial Day the same as Veterans Day?
No, Memorial Day honors service members who died in military service, while Veterans Day honors all U.S. military veterans. The two holidays have different meanings and purposes.
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