What is Memorial Day: History, Significance, and How We Celebrate?

To some Americans, Memorial Day is celebrated as the beginning of summer, while others recognize it as a three-day weekend to hold family and friend gatherings. Some observe it by visiting memorials or cemeteries. 

But what is Memorial Day's meaning, why is it often seen as a celebration, and why do we recognize this day? Read on as we dive into the history behind Memorial Day, its significance, and how it is celebrated!

What is Memorial Day?

Memorial Day, also known as Decoration Day, is observed in America on the last Monday of May each year to honor soldiers who died in the American Civil War, which took place in 1861 and claimed the lives of more than 620,000 U.S. military personnel (more than any war in U.S. history). 

Historic records show that by the late 1860s, people had begun paying tribute to fallen soldiers of the American Civil War by reciting prayers and decorating their graves with flowers and flags.

On May 5, 1868, a Civil War veteran, General John A. Logan, issued an order to observe a nationwide day of remembrance for soldiers who died serving the U.S. in the Civil War. 

In recent times, Memorial Day has been celebrated as a military appreciation day to commemorate the fallen U.S. men and women soldiers of all conflicts, instead of only those who lost their lives in the American Civil War.

When is Memorial Day 2025?

Memorial Day is a federal annual holiday held on the last Monday of May every year to commemorate and mourn those who have died in service to our country. In 2025, Memorial Day will be observed on May 26. 

Difference between Memorial Day and Veterans Day

In America, Memorial Day and Veterans Day honor the sacrifices made by veterans, but they are not the same. Veteran Day was established in 1926 after World War I as a way to honor all those who had served in the United States Military during World War I, while Memorial Day focuses on U.S. service men and women who have died in all wars, including World War II, the Vietnam War, the War in Afghanistan, and Iraq. 

History of Memorial Day

Memorial Day, originally known as Decoration Day, began after the American Civil War to honor U.S. soldiers who died during the war and to decorate their graves with flags, flowers, and wreaths.

It is believed that the practice of decorating graves and honoring the dead was inspired by customs in the Southern states.

Though the exact origin of Decoration Day is unknown, several towns and cities have claimed to have initiated the first memorial gatherings and observed Decoration Day. After the Civil War, various ceremonies to honor fallen heroes and decorate their graves were held across the country.

Veteran Gen. John A. Logan, who was the leader of an organization of Union Civil War veterans, issued an order to designate May 30 as a day of remembrance to honor soldiers who died while serving the U.S. in the Civil War. 

By World War II, many states had passed resolutions to officially make it an annual holiday. Later, it was decided to observe this day to honor soldiers who died in all wars, not just the Civil War. 

The date of Memorial Day was changed from May 30 to the last Monday in May following the passage of the Uniform Monday Holiday Act 1968.

Why is Memorial Day important?

Memorial Day is a reminder of the brave military personnel who served for our country and gave their lives for our sovereignty and freedom. It is not just a holiday; it is a time to think about why we remember those who lost their lives in the service of our country. 

Memorial Day is also a chance for veterans to honor their fellows and other brave men and women soldiers who are no longer here.

Take this day as an opportunity to show how grateful we are for our soldiers who fought wars with bravery and courage. 

How is Memorial Day celebrated?

Many towns across the country have local Memorial Day celebrations, while major cities host Memorial Day events near me and parades each year in which members of veterans' organizations, veterans, and serving military personnel take part. 

New York, Chicago, and Washington, D.C., host some of the largest Memorial Day parades. In addition to parades, people participate in the National Moment of Remembrance at 3 p.m. Some observe this day by visiting memorials and cemeteries. 

Some people put flags, wreaths, and flowers on the graves of soldiers who lost their lives in war. Wearing a red poppy in remembrance of those fallen soldiers is another tradition associated with Memorial Day. 

Many people also visit monuments dedicated to Marines and soldiers. As Memorial Day weekend means the beginning of summer, many people throw parties, attend Memorial Day weekend festivals, or take weekend trips with family. 

In addition, many retailers offer a best buy Memorial Day sale for veterans in honor of Memorial Day. 

Kick off a weed-fueled summer with Smokeland's Memorial Day deals!

Whether you are hosting a barbecue party or planning to go for a weekend trip, weed can be a great fun addition. No matter how you are celebrating, you can stock up on your preferred strains and products you need for your plans for less with our exciting Memorial Day deals. With our thoughtfully curated selection of weed products for the Memorial Day weekend sale, you won't want to shop anywhere else. So why wait? Order now to snag our Memorial Day cannabis deals East Bay while supplies last!