Memorial Day is a US federal holiday observed on the last Monday of May, honoring military personnel who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces.
Originally called Decoration Day, the holiday emerged after the Civil War (1861-1865) as Northern and Southern communities decorated soldiers' graves. The first widespread Decoration Day was May 30, 1868. Congress moved it to the last Monday of May in 1971 to create a three-day weekend.
American flags are placed at gravestones of military personnel. The National Memorial Day Parade in Washington, D.C. Presidential wreath-laying at Arlington National Cemetery's Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Indianapolis 500 race held Memorial Day weekend. Many American families consider it the unofficial start of summer — barbecues and beach trips are widespread.
Barbecue — hamburgers, hot dogs, ribs, chicken. Potato salad, coleslaw, watermelon. Apple pie. Lemonade.
Federal holiday — banks, schools, post offices closed. One of the year's heaviest travel days in the US. Memorial Day weekend airline traffic spikes 30-40%. National parks and beaches packed.