What Is Memorial Day
Memorial Day is a federal U.S. holiday observed on the last Monday of May. It honors military personnel who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. Originally known as Decoration Day, it began after the Civil War to commemorate fallen soldiers.
How Memorial Day Is Celebrated
Common observances include visiting cemeteries and memorials, placing flags or flowers on graves, and participating in parades. Many families gather for barbecues and outdoor activities, while official ceremonies often feature speeches, rifle volleys, and the playing of Taps. The National Memorial Day Concert in Washington, D.C., is one widely recognized public event.
Memorial Day vs. Veterans Day
Memorial Day specifically honors those who died in military service, while Veterans Day celebrates all living veterans. Both are federal holidays, but their focus and historical origins differ. For more details on federal holidays and observances, see the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
