Memorial Day: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about Memorial Day (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. Memorial Day is observed on May 29th.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of Memorial Day, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as intriguing facts you may want to know about Memorial Day.

📅 What day is Memorial Day 2024?

In 2024, Memorial Day is on Monday, May 29th. It is the 5th Monday in May; in 2024, it is Wednesday. There are until the next observance. You also can discover all intriguing details and facts about May 29, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

When Memorial Day arrives on May 29th, it is often associated with thoughts of barbecues, swimming pools, and the start of summer for many Americans. However, it is crucial to recognize that this day holds significant importance as a time to honor and remember those who lost their lives while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. Memorial Day is a solemn holiday deeply rooted in history and tradition. It originated after the Civil War, when people would place flowers on the graves of both Union and Confederate soldiers during “Decoration Day.” While it has also become known as the unofficial start to summer, it is essential to reflect on the sacrifices made by the brave soldiers that allow us to enjoy this season.

📜 Memorial Day History

On May 30, 1868, a day was set aside to honor and decorate the graves of soldiers who died defending their country during the Civil War. General Logan chose this date because flowers would be in bloom across the nation. Memorial Day celebrations spread throughout the country by the late 19th century, with states and the military making rules and proclamations to ensure proper observance. The tradition of placing American flags on each tomb began and continues in many national cemeteries. In the North, Decoration Day became an official holiday by 1890, but in the South, separate days were observed until the end of World War One. In 1968, Congress passed a law to provide a three-day weekend for government workers, moving Memorial Day to the last Monday in May. This change took effect in 1971, officially designating Memorial Day as a federal holiday.

✅ Memorial Day Facts

🔖 Line your walkway with mini flags
There is no better way to honor our brave soldiers who have passed away than by displaying numerous flags on your front yard and porch.

🔖 Red, white, and blue layered cake
It is a delightful decoration.

🔖 Unfurl those flags
On patriotic occasions, people often display their American flags, which they typically keep stored away. Today is undoubtedly one of those special days.

👍 Why Is Memorial Day Important

While we enjoy the outdoor grilling, parades, and beautiful summer weather on Memorial Day, the last Monday in May is the best time of year to quietly reflect on the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. They inspire and challenge us to be better, which is a beautiful feeling!

We all know that summer officially begins on June 21. Summer, in the thoughts of all Americans, begins on Memorial Day. That means you can dust off the grill, fill up the pool, and disconnect.

Because Memorial Day is a federal holiday with a three-day weekend built in, we get an extra day to spend meaningful time with family members. Memorial Day holds special meaning for those of us who had relatives who died while serving in the military.

🙂 How To Observe Memorial Day

⚡ Fly the flag

⚡ Pay your respects
Honor the memory of a fallen loved one who bravely served by placing flowers on their grave. Even if you don’t personally know any deceased soldiers, it is important to visit a cemetery as a way to pay respects. Remember, they made the ultimate sacrifice for the benefit of others.

⚡ Participate in the National Moment of Remembrance
If you have an American flag, keep it at half-mast until noon, then raise it to full mast for the remainder of the day. For nearly a century, the ritual of lowering and then raising the flag has been practiced to symbolize America’s perseverance in the face of adversity.

📅 When is Memorial Day?

See all 🔗 May holidays, including 🔗 Federal and other 🔗 Family holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and must-know facts about Memorial Day. So be sure to check back soon.