It's not 'Happy Memorial Day.' 9 things to know about the federal holiday

Cheryl McCloud, Treasure Coast Newspapers
·4 min read

Memorial Day, the unofficial start of summer, has a more somber meaning: it's the day set aside to honor the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military.

Many people attend ceremonies in their communities, watch parades or visit cemeteries.

The holiday originally known as Decoration Day has been around since just after the Civil War in the mid-1800s. It became an official federal holiday in 1971.

Here's more about the holiday and how you can observe the day.

Why do we observe Memorial Day? Here's the true history of the holiday

Fast facts: 10 historical facts about Memorial Day

When is Memorial Day 2023?

Memorial Day will be observed May 29, 2023.

Memorial Day was celebrated on May 30 until 1971. At that time, the National Holiday Act of 1971 designated the last Monday in May to be the federal holiday.

Is Memorial Day a federal holiday?

Yes, Memorial Day is one of 11 federal holidays. Schools and libraries will be closed, along with most federal and state offices. There will be no mail delivery on Memorial Day.

In 1868, about 5,000 people decorated graves at Arlington National Cemetery’s first Memorial Day ceremony.

By 1890, it was recognized by all of the northern states. The South refused to acknowledge the day, honoring their dead on separate days until after World War I. At that time, the holiday changed from honoring just those who died fighting in the Civil War to honoring Americans who died fighting in any war.

Will there be school on Memorial Day?

No. As a federal holiday, schools will be closed.

Is Memorial Day a Florida holiday?

Yes. Memorial Day is a holiday recognized by the state.

Should you say 'Happy Memorial Day'?

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Often seen as the unofficial kickoff to summer, Memorial Day is intended to honor those people who have died in service to their country, so wishing someone a "Happy Memorial Day" really isn't appropriate.

For families who have lost loved ones, it's often not a happy day in the traditional sense but one filled with emotion.

So what can you say instead? Thank service members and their families for their service and sacrifice.

The Code of Conduct Foundation offered these suggestions:

  • I wish you a meaningful Memorial Day.

  • I hope you enjoy your weekend, and pause to remember its purpose.

  • Help remember those who have served on this Memorial Day.

What is the history of Memorial Day?

Honoring the men and women who have died while serving in the military has taken place in the U.S. since the end of the Civil War.

In 1868, Gen. John Logan called for a nationwide day of remembrance. The observance was called Decoration Day, and it was observed on May 30, 1868, as a time for the nation to decorate the graves of the war dead with flowers.

Decoration Day gradually became known as Memorial Day and now honors all U.S. service members who have died during a military conflict.

What type of decorations are appropriate for Memorial Day?

Think patriotic, with red, white and blue. Fly the American flag.

Consider creating a memory table to display service medals earned by family members who served in the military.

What sort of events recognize Memorial Day?

Many communities observe Memorial Day with parades, concerts or ceremonies put on by local veteran organizations.

Are there sales for Memorial Day?

Businesses take advantage of the day to offer several sales, especially appliances.

Best sales: 60+ best early Memorial Day sales to shop now

Mattress sales: Stay well-rested during the Tuft & Needle Memorial Day sale with a new mattress

10 best deals: Things you need on items you need ahead of Memorial Day 2023—swimsuits, sunscreen and more

What are other holidays are coming up in 2023?

After Memorial Day on May 29, here are the upcoming holidays remaining in 2023:

  • June 18: Father's Day. Not a public holiday.

  • June 19: Juneteenth. Federal holiday.

  • July 4: Independence Day, Fourth of July. Federal holiday.

  • Sept. 4: Labor Day. Federal holiday.

  • Oct. 9: Columbus Day. Federal holiday. Celebrated as U.S. Indigenous People's Day in some regions.

  • Nov. 10-13: Veterans Day. Federal holiday.

  • Nov. 23: Thanksgiving. Federal holiday.

  • Nov. 24: Day after Thanksgiving. Regional holiday.

  • Dec. 25: Christmas. Federal holiday.

This article originally appeared on Treasure Coast Newspapers: Memorial Day 2023: Why we observe the federal holiday