Memorial Day is a U.S. federal holiday observed on the Monday in May
Memorial Day is a U.S. federal holiday observed on the Monday in May (May 25, 2026) to honor and mourn military personnel who died in service. Originally known as "Decoration Day," it features ceremonies at national cemeteries and the placing of flags on graves. It also marks the unofficial start of summer. Key Facts & Traditions Purpose: To remember the over one million service members who died in military service to the United States. Date (2026): Monday, May 25th. Origin: The first large observance was May 30, 1868, proclaimed by Gen. John A. Logan to decorate Union soldiers' graves with flowers. Flag Protocol: The American flag should be flown at half-staff until noon, then raised to the top until sunset. National Moment of Remembrance: Observed at 3 p.m. local time on Memorial Day. Events: Parades, visiting cemeteries, and family gatherings are common, with many visiting sites like Arlington National Cemetery Memorial Day: A Comprehensive Journey Thr...