United States · May 25, 2026

Memorial Day

The last Monday of May — remembering Americans who died serving the country.

What happened

It began as Decoration Day after the Civil War, when communities went out in spring to decorate graves with flowers. Several towns claim to have been first; the practice spread on its own before any law. It became a federal holiday on the last Monday of May in 1971.

Why it stuck

It is a day of remembering, not of celebrating — the difference is worth teaching. Flags are flown at half-staff until noon, then raised: the mourning comes first, then the living carry on.

What a family can do

Put flowers somewhere. A grave, a memorial, a windowsill. Say a name out loud if your family has one.

Questions to work through

1. Memorial Day and Veterans Day are different. Say the difference in one sentence.
2. Why is the flag at half-staff until noon and full height after?
3. Find out when your town's war memorial was put up, and who paid for it.