Meaning and origin of Memorial Day
Memorial Day is a United States holiday dedicated to remembering and honoring military personnel who died while serving in the U.S. armed forces. Its origins trace to the years after the Civil War, with multiple communities holding early observances to decorate the graves of the fallen. In 1967, the name Memorial Day was formally adopted by federal law, and in 1971 it was established as a federal holiday observed on the last Monday in May. The day is marked by ceremonies, visits to cemeteries, parades, and moments of remembrance.
When is Memorial Day in 2018
In 2018, Memorial Day was observed on Monday, May 28. This date follows the federal rule that the holiday is celebrated on the last Monday of May. Many people use this Monday as the unofficial start of the summer recreation season, though the day’s purpose is to honor those who died in military service.
Memorial Day 2018 at a glance
Key details about when and why the holiday is observed in 2018 are summarized below.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Holiday | Memorial Day | Federal observance |
| Year | 2018 | Calendar year |
| Date | Monday, May 28, 2018 | U.S. federal holiday rule |
| Observance | Last Monday in May | Uniform Monday Holiday Act |
| Purpose | Honor U.S. military personnel who died in service | Federal law and tradition |
Memorial Day versus other military holidays
Memorial Day is often confused with other military-related observances. Understanding the distinctions helps ensure the day is recognized correctly.
Key differences at a glance
- Memorial Day: honors those who died in military service; observed on the last Monday in May.
- Veterans Day: honors all U.S. military veterans, living and deceased; observed on November 11.
- Armed Forces Day: honors those currently serving in the U.S. military; observed on the third Saturday in May.
Federal status and impact on services
As a federal holiday, Memorial Day affects non-essential federal operations and many state and local services. Courts, federal offices, and some banks may be closed, while public schools and many businesses may adjust hours or remain open. The day is also marked by the National Moment of Remembrance at 3:00 p.m. local time.
Common traditions and observances
Across the United States, Memorial Day is marked by a mix of solemn remembrance and community activities. Many people visit cemeteries and memorials, place flags or flowers on graves, and attend local parades. National observances include the wreath-laying at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery. Parades, church services, and community gatherings are common at the local level.
Regional and historical observances
Early commemorations, sometimes called Decoration Day, arose in multiple communities in the years following the Civil War. While many locations held springtime tributes to the fallen, federal recognition and a unified date helped establish the national observance known today as Memorial Day. Over time, the holiday expanded to honor all U.S. military personnel who died in all wars.
Planning around the holiday
Because Memorial Day is a federal holiday, it can affect scheduling for travel, postal services, and government offices. For accurate planning, always check specific state and local announcements, as some services may vary. Individuals and organizations can align their activities with established federal guidance to ensure appropriate observance.