Decorating Day, as it was known to begin with, was marked by adorning grave markers with flowers. In 1882, the date was referred to by its current name and by 1968 the new moniker was officially adopted. Modern tradition sees hundreds of volunteers arriving at Arlington National Cemetery the Thursday before the holiday to adorn the gravestones with small American flags. This custom is also carried out at national cemeteries all over the country.
Official traditions include the flying of the flag at half mast until noon on the holiday. A national moment of remembrance is recognized at 3 o'clock in the afternoon when all citizens are encouraged to pay silent tribute to the fallen.
An annual concert has been staged on the lawn outside the Capitol building for the past two decades. The festive event is hosted and televised by PBS and includes live music, dramatic readings and documentary film footage to mark the occasion.
Moina Michael started the tradition of wearing red a poppy in remembrance of those who lost their lives. The poet successfully raised money for servicemen in need by selling her flowers. The VFW picked up on this practice and instituted the Buddy Poppy program. Veterans home and hospital residents work together gathering poppies and selling them to support fellow veterans in need.
People living in America have now come to think of Memorial Day weekend as the start of the summer season. The school year has ended and families are free to gather together for a trip to the beach, a pool party or a barbecue. Retailers also use the long weekend to attract consumers by offering seasonal discounts.
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Learn more about Memorial Day weekend topics. Stop by HomeFellas where you can find Memorial Day sales.
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