Memorial Day is the national holiday that is widely regarded as the “unofficial beginning of summer.” Originally known as “Decoration Day,” the holiday dates back to a commemoration of U.S. military personnel who lost their lives in the Civil War.
First celebrated in numerous northern states on May 30 as early as 1866, “Decoration Day” became an annual national event to remember men and women who died in the service of their country during wartime by decorating their graves with flags and flowers. In 1971, Congress established “Memorial Day” as a federal holiday to be celebrated on the last Monday of May.
Traditions surrounding the national commemoration developed throughout the 20th century. Visits to cemeteries, speeches, displaying American flags, community parades and family picnics have become standard practice in cities and towns everywhere in the U.S. Read more HERE.