Happy Memorial Day
2026
Monday May 25   

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​Origins After the Civil War (1860s)

Memorial Day began in the aftermath of the American Civil War (1861–1865), the deadliest conflict in U.S. history, which claimed more than 600,000 lives. Communities across the country started holding local ceremonies to honor fallen soldiers by decorating their graves with flowers, wreaths, and flags.

Because of this practice, the day was originally known as “Decoration Day.”
Importantly, no single town can definitively claim to be the birthplace. Many communities—both in the North and South—organized similar commemorations independently.

Waterloo, New York, and Formal Recognition

In 1966, President Lyndon B. Johnson officially recognized Waterloo, New York, as the birthplace of Memorial Day. Waterloo held an organized, community‑wide event on      May 5, 1866, honoring Civil War veterans, and the observance was repeated annually.
While this recognition is symbolic, historians agree the holiday evolved organically from many local traditions rather than a single origin.

General John A. Logan and Decoration Day (1868)

​Memorial Day became more formalized on May 30, 1868, when General John A. Logan, leader of an organization for Union veterans called the Grand Army of the Republic, proclaimed a national “Decoration Day.”

• The date was chosen because it was not the anniversary of any specific battle.
• The first large observance took place at Arlington National Cemetery, where graves of Union and Confederate soldiers were decorated.

At this point, the day primarily honored Union soldiers who died in the Civil War.

Expansion Beyond the Civil War

After World War I, the meaning of the day broadened. Memorial Day came to honor all American military personnel who died in any war, not just the Civil War.
This shift helped unify the tradition nationally and made it relevant for later generations following World War II, Korea, Vietnam, and subsequent conflicts.

Memorial Day Becomes a Federal Holiday

• In 1971, Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, officially establishing Memorial Day as a federal holiday.
• The observance was moved from May 30 to the last Monday in May, creating a three‑day weekend.

While this change increased public participation, some veterans organizations opposed it, arguing it risked shifting focus away from remembrance toward recreation.

Traditions and Symbols Today

Memorial Day is observed in many ways across the United States:

• Visiting cemeteries and memorials
• Placing flags on graves of fallen service members
• Participating in parades and ceremonies
• Observing the National Moment of Remembrance at 3:00 p.m. local time
• Wearing red poppies, inspired by World War I memorial poems

Although the weekend is often associated with the start of summer, its core purpose remains honoring those who died while serving in the U.S. military.

Memorial Day vs. Veterans Day

​A common point of confusion:

• Memorial Day honors those who died in military service
• Veterans Day (November 11) honors all who served, living or deceased

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Ordering takeout on Memorial Day is a great way to enjoy the holiday weekend and get that classic summer-kickoff vibe without having to stand over a hot grill. Here are some of the best takeout options that fit the day perfectly:
1. Barbecue (The Ultimate Classic)Nothing says Memorial Day like slow-smoked meats. Ordering a family-style platter from a local BBQ joint is a crowd-pleaser that travels exceptionally well.

• What to order: A combination of ribs, pulled pork, or beef brisket.
  
• Don't forget the sides: Mac and cheese, coleslaw, baked beans, and cornbread are essential to round out the meal.
  

2. Gourmet Burgers & WingsIf you want the backyard cookout experience without the charcoal smoke, local burger taverns are the perfect route.

• What to order: Elevated smash burgers (hot honey and caramelized onion variations are especially popular this season) paired with a big order of smoked or traditional buffalo chicken wings. ​
  
  
• Tip: Ask for the burger toppings (lettuce, tomato, pickles) on the side so the buns don't get soggy on the ride home.
  

3. Italian & Specialty SandwichesIf you are planning to eat outside on a patio or balcony, or need something easy to eat while watching a game, a giant sandwich platter is incredibly convenient.

• What to order: High-quality Italian heroes loaded with prosciutto, fresh mozzarella, roasted red peppers, and a drizzle of balsamic, or classic sausage and pepper heroes. They hold up perfectly at room temperature and require zero reheating.
  

4. Seafood & Lobster RollsSince Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer, leaning into coastal flavors is a fantastic option for a special holiday meal.

• What to order: Maine-style (cold with a touch of mayo) or Connecticut-style (warm with melted butter) lobster rolls. Pair them with old bay French fries or a crisp potato salad.
  

5. Brick-Oven PizzaPizza is always a reliable holiday takeout choice, especially if you are gathering to watch sports tonight.

• What to order: Switch up your usual order for something with fresh, summer-forward toppings like a classic Margherita with fresh basil and tomatoes, or a white pie with zucchini and ricotta.