Memorial Day 2025: History, Events, Sales & More

Memorial Day 2025 is a time for the nation to come together in remembrance and reflection. Observed on the last Monday of May each year, it honors the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the U.S. military. Originally recognized after the Civil War, Memorial Day has evolved into a day of both solemn tribute and celebration of the freedoms these heroes fought to protect. And if you’re planning to start buying Memorial Day & early, our companion guide covers budgeting, etiquette, and timing.

In this article, we’ll explore the history behind Memorial Day, why we celebrate it, the events and ceremonies marking the occasion, as well as the best Memorial Day sales. Whether you’re attending a local parade, shopping for deals, or taking time to reflect, this guide will help you make the most of Memorial Day 2025.

• Best Memorial Day Gift Ideas 2025

Memorial Day History: The Origins & Evolution

What is Memorial Day?

Memorial Day is a national day of remembrance dedicated to honoring U.S. military personnel who have died in service to their country. The holiday, observed on the last Monday of May, traces its origins to the aftermath of the Civil War, when communities across the United States began decorating soldiers' graves with flowers as a way to honor their sacrifices. This practice gave rise to what was initially called Decoration Day, a solemn day of tribute to fallen soldiers.

The First Memorial Day (1868)

The first official observance of Memorial Day took place on May 30, 1868, at Arlington National Cemetery, marking a pivotal moment in the nation’s effort to remember those lost during the Civil War. The ceremony was organized by John A. Logan, a Union general and the national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR), a veterans' organization made up of Union veterans. General Logan’s proclamation called for a nationwide observance to decorate the graves of soldiers who had died during the Civil War with flowers. This observance became the foundation of what we now know as Memorial Day.

Name Change: From Decoration Day to Memorial Day

Although the tradition of decorating soldiers' graves continued after the first official Memorial Day, it wasn’t until after World War I that the holiday expanded in scope. As more Americans perished in subsequent wars, the need to honor not just Civil War veterans, but all military personnel who died in service, became more apparent. In 1971, Memorial Day was officially recognized as a federal holiday and moved to the last Monday in May to provide a long weekend for Americans to reflect on the sacrifice of those who gave their lives for the nation. This shift symbolized the holiday’s transformation from its origins as Decoration Day to a broader observance honoring all fallen military personnel.

Key Figures and Moments

John A. Logan’s creation of the first Memorial Day ceremony marked a significant step in the nation’s healing process after the Civil War. His leadership in establishing the holiday was crucial to its widespread recognition. As Memorial Day evolved, it became not only a day of reflection and remembrance but also a time for the nation to come together to honor the legacy of its military heroes, no matter the war they fought in.

Memorial Day 2025: Dates & Celebrations

Date of Memorial Day 2025

In 2025, Memorial Day will be observed on Monday, May 26. This long weekend marks the unofficial start of summer, but more importantly, it is a time to pause and reflect on the sacrifices made by military personnel who gave their lives for the freedom of the United States.

Key Events and Celebrations

The national celebrations will be anchored in Washington D.C., where some of the most significant events will take place. The National Memorial Day Parade will march down Constitution Avenue, featuring veterans' organizations, marching bands, and military units from various branches. Visitors can attend this vibrant and moving event or tune in to watch it live. Additionally, the Memorial Day ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery will take place at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, where dignitaries and military personnel gather for a wreath-laying ceremony to honor those who have fallen in service.

Across the country, many cities and towns will host local Memorial Day events, from parades to ceremonies and volunteer activities. To find these events near you, simply search for “Memorial Day parade near me” or “Memorial Day events near me,” which will show listings of local observances, gatherings, and community services.

Public Participation

One of the most significant moments on Memorial Day is the National Moment of Remembrance, which takes place at 3 p.m. nationwide. During this time, Americans are encouraged to pause for one minute of silence to honor the fallen soldiers. Whether at home, at an event, or on the road, this moment allows everyone to come together in a shared expression of gratitude and remembrance.

Memorial Day Sales & Shopping Deals

Sales Overview

Memorial Day is not only a time for reflection and remembrance but also a significant shopping event. It has become one of the biggest retail holidays of the year, with retailers offering substantial discounts across a wide range of categories. From home goods and furniture to electronics and outdoor equipment, Memorial Day sales cater to nearly every shopping need. It’s a great opportunity for shoppers to stock up on seasonal items, upgrade their homes, or even get a head start on holiday shopping.

Major Retailers and Discounts

Retailers like Amazon, and Giftpals are well-known for offering Memorial Day mattress deals and other major sales. Amazon’s Memorial Day deals often span a broad range of categories, including home essentials, electronics, and apparel. Target Memorial Day sales are especially popular for clothing, home décor, and patio furniture, with discounts reaching up to 50% off in some categories. Wayfair and Home Depot typically offer Memorial Day furniture sales with markdowns on everything from sofas to patio sets and garden tools. Shoppers can also find Memorial Day clearance sales across many of these stores, helping to make the most of the holiday shopping season.

When to Shop

The best time to shop during Memorial Day sales often begins before the weekend itself. Early bird deals typically start in the days leading up to Memorial Day, allowing shoppers to lock in discounts ahead of the rush. Clearance sales are common after the holiday weekend, as retailers make room for new inventory. If you're looking for the best Memorial Day sales, keep an eye out for deals starting as early as mid-May, and be prepared to snag some last-minute bargains on Memorial Day weekend itself.

Looking for inspired Memorial Day gift suggestions before the long weekend? Our curated top-ten list makes choosing easy.

What’s on Sale

While there are sales in nearly every department, the most popular items during Memorial Day deals include furniture, home décor, clothing, mattresses, and outdoor equipment. It’s an excellent time to score discounts on patio furniture, grills, and garden tools, as well as upgrade your mattress with exclusive deals. Be sure to check out the best Memorial Day sales in your local stores or online retailers for the biggest discounts and seasonal must-haves.

Hosting friends? Check our Memorial Day party must-haves for effortless entertaining.

Memorial Day Quotes, Poems & Prayers

Memorial Day Quotes

Memorial Day is a time for reflection, and what better way to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice than through meaningful words? Some of the most powerful Memorial Day quotes come from veterans, presidents, and leaders who have expressed deep gratitude for the sacrifices made. Former President Abraham Lincoln poignantly stated, “The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or detract.” These words remind us of the reverence and responsibility we have in remembering fallen soldiers. George H.W. Bush also offered a heartfelt sentiment: “The wound of war, as we know, is not always visible.” These words resonate every Memorial Day, reminding us that the effects of sacrifice are long-lasting.

Memorial Day Poems

Poetry offers another avenue for reflection on Memorial Day. One of the most widely recited poems, “In Flanders Fields” by John McCrae, beautifully honors those who fell during World War I. The opening lines, “In Flanders fields the poppies blow, / Between the crosses, row on row,” have become synonymous with Memorial Day remembrance. Another fitting poem is “The Blue and the Gray” by Francis M. Finch, which highlights the reconciliation between former enemies after the Civil War.

Memorial Day Prayers

In addition to quotes and poems, Memorial Day prayers offer a moment of spiritual reflection. A traditional prayer often recited is: “Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them.” This prayer reflects the deep respect and reverence we have for those who have given their lives in service to the nation.

FAQs

What do people say on Memorial Day?

On Memorial Day, the focus is on honoring the fallen, so typical greetings are solemn and respectful. Instead of saying "Happy Memorial Day," which can feel too celebratory, people often say “We honor and remember those who gave their lives for our freedom.” It’s a time to reflect on the sacrifices made by military service members, and the words shared are often filled with gratitude and respect.

Is Memorial Day for just veterans?

No, Memorial Day is specifically for remembering and honoring those who died while serving in the U.S. military. While Veterans Day honors all military veterans, Memorial Day focuses on those who made the ultimate sacrifice. The holiday originated as a way to honor the fallen soldiers of the Civil War but has since expanded to include all military personnel who died in combat.

When is Memorial Day 2025?

Memorial Day 2025 will be observed on Monday, May 26, 2025. The date always falls on the last Monday of May, and it is a federal holiday that provides Americans with a long weekend to reflect on the sacrifices made by service members.

What was Memorial Day originally called?

Memorial Day was originally known as Decoration Day. It started after the Civil War as a day to decorate the graves of fallen soldiers with flowers. The name changed to Memorial Day after World War I, as the holiday came to honor all military personnel who died in U.S. wars.

Is everyone off on Memorial Day?

Memorial Day is a federal holiday, meaning government offices and federal workers typically have the day off. However, many private businesses, retail stores, and restaurants remain open, often with special Memorial Day sales and extended hours.

Memorial Day 2025 is more than just a long weekend or a day for barbecues and sales; it is a time for deep reflection and honoring the men and women who gave their lives to protect our freedoms. This solemn holiday invites us to pause and remember the sacrifices made by military personnel, and it also provides an opportunity to connect with loved ones, celebrate the beginning of summer, and give back to the community.

As we reflect on the significance of Memorial Day, we encourage you to participate in local events, such as parades and ceremonies, where you can join in the collective act of remembrance. Share meaningful Memorial Day quotes or recite poems and prayers that capture the essence of this day. If you're shopping for deals, take advantage of Memorial Day sales to make your home more comfortable while supporting retailers who honor the spirit of the holiday. Whether you’re spending the day reflecting, celebrating, or shopping, Memorial Day 2025 is an opportunity to remember the fallen and embrace the freedom they fought for.