Memorial Day
About Memorial Day
When is Memorial Day? This holiday is always observed on the last Monday in May
Memorial Day is officially celebrated on the last Monday in May. Memorial Day is dedicated to service men and women who gave their lives for freedom and country. It is also a time to remember loved ones who have passed away. The roots of Memorial Day observance go back to 1865 and the end of the Civil War.
The ultimate sacrifice made by millions of U.S. servicemen and women is perhaps best exemplified by Nathan Hale as he was about to be executed by the British for spying for the Continental Army when he said “I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country.”
Memorial Day was traditionally held on the 30th of May. In 1971, Congress changed it to the last Monday, to create a three-day holiday weekend. Regardless of the date, we encourage you to follow Memorial Day tradition: attend a parade and visit a cemetery to honor and remember our serviceman. Take time to remember lost loved ones in whatever way you feel appropriate.
Did you Know? Memorial Day was first called Decoration Day. It was changed to Memorial Day in 1882.
Memorial Day also marks the beginning of the gardening and summer seasons, even though summer will not occur until a few weeks later. This day usually includes the first family picnic of the year.
How to Celebrate Memorial Day
- Visit the graves of servicemen and women.
- Plant flowers on the graves of loved ones.
- Attend a parade.
- Have a picnic.
Today's Quote
“Our nation owes a debt to its fallen heroes that we can never fully repay.” – – Barak Obama
History and Origin of Memorial Day
Memorial Day began at the end of the Civil War.
More About Today
Recipe of the Day: Firecracker Punch
Plant of the Day: Lovage
Ecards Send a free Ecard daily for just about any May calendar holiday, occasion, observance, or event. Or, just for the fun of it!
Holiday Insights, where every day in May is a holiday, a bizarre or wacky day, an observance, or a special event. Join us in the daily calendar fun each and every day of the year.
Did You Know? There are literally thousands of daily holidays, special events, and observances, more than one for every day of the year. Many of these holidays are new. People and organizations are creating new holidays regularly. May holidays are no exception. Consequently., at Holiday Insights, we take great efforts to thoroughly research and document the details of each one, as completely and accurately as possible.