Memorial Day is one of two United States holidays set aside to remember and appreciate the veterans of the U.S. Military. While Veterans Day is dedicated to recognizing all veterans, Memorial Day’s purpose is specifically to remember those lost while serving in the military.
First observed during the times of the Civil War and known as Decoration Day, the holiday began with people laying flowers on the graves of lost soldiers in the springtime. In 1971, the day was established as a federal holiday, though it had been celebrated in various states around the nation in the intervening years. Today it is observed on the last Monday in May and marks both a solemn day of remembrance and the unofficial start to summer, a day when many hold barbecues and pool parties.
Learn More About Memorial Day
This list of resources will grow as community members contribute. Send recommendations to hello@burlington.buzz.
Recommended Watching and Reading
From quirky to artistic to realistic to poignant, this list from Cosmopolitan highlights 32 films to watch on the long weekend, and this list from the American Writers Museum offers 12 titles for children and adults alike to learn about soldiers’ experiences and the holiday itself.
The picture book A Day For Rememberin’ illustrates a grassroots Memorial Day celebrated in Charleston by the Freed Black population in 1865, three years before the 1868 proclamation by General John Logan.
In-person and online resources
History.com has an in-depth guide to Memorial Day, highlighting some traditions used to celebrate the day.
Where to Celebrate Memorial Day in Burlington
Below are just a few events happening nearby to celebrate Memorial Day in Burlington and nearby 2024. Let us know if you have one you’d like to add!
Each year, the Veteran Services Department places flags on the graves of all veterans of the U.S. Military at Burlington’s Pine Haven and Chestnut Hill Cemeteries. In 2024, the flag placement takes place on Wednesday, May 22, at 3:30 PM.
Then, on Memorial Day at 10:00 AM, the town holds a Memorial Day ceremony at the Veterans’ Section of the Chestnut Hill Cemetery.
There will be a National Memorial Day Concert broadcast by PBS on Sunday, May 26.
How do you and your family observe Memorial Day? What resources would help your neighbors and their children and grandchildren learn more about this holiday? Share your stories with us by emailing hello@burlington.buzz, and your story could be added to this feature!
What are you celebrating or observing? Let us know at hello@burlington.buzz!, and your story could be featured in Community Celebrations.
