Memorial Day (United States) - What and When?

Memorial Day or Decoration Day is a federal holiday in the United States for remembering the people who died while serving in the country's armed forces.

Originally known as Decoration Day, it originated in the years following the Civil War and became an official federal holiday in 1971.

The holiday is observed every year on the last Monday of May. It marks the unofficial start of the summer vacation season, while Labor Day marks its end.

Many people visit cemeteries and memorials, particularly to honor those who have died in military service.