Memorial Day 2025

Memorial Day Day falls on Monday, May 26.


There are 169 days till Memorial Day 2025.


Understanding the history and significance of Memorial Day is crucial to fully appreciating this federal holiday in the United States. Let's delve into its origins and traditions.

What is Memorial Day?

Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States observed annually on the last Monday of May. It commemorates fallen men and women who have lost their lives while serving in the armed forces.

The holiday, with its profound roots in the aftermath of the Civil War, was established to pay tribute to the soldiers from both the Union and the Confederacy who gave their all. Originally known as Decoration Day, it was first observed on May 30, 1868, with the solemn act of placing flowers on the graves of fallen soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery.

Over the years, the holiday has evolved to encompass all Americans who have died in military service, regardless of the war or conflict. Today, Memorial Day stands as a day of reflection, a time to honor the sacrifices made by those who have died in service to their country and to keep their memory alive.

Some common ways that people celebrate Memorial Day include:

  • Visiting national cemeteries and memorials, such as Arlington National Cemetery or the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
  • Participating in parades and ceremonies
  • Flying the American flag at half-staff until noon, then raising it to the top of the flagpole
  • Spending time with family and friends, often by having picnics, barbecues, or other outdoor activities
  • Honoring the fallen by visiting gravesites, attending memorial services, or participating in other acts of remembrance.

It's important to remember that while Memorial Day often represents the unofficial start of summer, it is an occasion of recollection and reflection. It is crucial to approach the holiday with the utmost respect and reverence for those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. This respect is a testament to the significance of Memorial Day.

Here are the upcoming dates for Memorial Day for the next few years:

  • 2025: Monday, May 26
  • 2026: Monday, May 15
  • 2027: Monday, May 31
  • 2028: Monday, May 29

Related: 2025 holidays