Three Popular Memorial Day Activities In Washington D.C.

Memorial Day is a patriotic holiday in the United States, so one of the most popular places to celebrate Memorial Day is in the United States capital of Washington, D.C. Each year millions of people head to Washington, D.C. to take part in a number of Memorial Day activities...three of the most popular of which include:

• Participating in or watching the National Parade
• Visiting the Arlington National Cemetery and Tomb of the Unknowns
• Attending the free National Concert held on the yard of the nation's capital

There are many Memorial Day celebrations in Washington, D.C., and if you ever plan to make a trip there for your Memorial holiday, be sure to make your travel plans well in advance, as the the Washington, D.C. area is often very busy on this particular holiday.

The History of Memorial Day

As you are enjoying your day off this Memorial Day holiday, you may be wondering about the history of Memorial Day. Memorial Day officially became a holiday on May 5, 1868, as proclaimed by General John Logan. However, the holiday also began to be observed on the 30th of May by other groups of U.S. citizens during that same year, and has since evolved to be celebrated on the last Monday in May each year. In addition to the national holiday, in the year 2000, the U.S. government enacted the National Moment of Remembrance, which observes an official moment of silence at 3 p.m. in each of the U.S. time zones for prayer and reflection. You may be planning to celebrate Memorial Day outdoors at a picnic, barbeque, the beach, or at a party, enjoying time with your friends and family; however, let's not forget the real reason this day is a holiday, and take a few moments at 3 p.m. in the midst of your celebrations to remember those who have fallen in defense of the freedoms you are enjoying as a citizen of the United States. And if you see a veteran, be sure to thank him or her!

Celebrating Memorial Day in Atlanta

If you live in, or will be traveling to the Atlanta area over this upcoming Memorial Day weekend, you will find a variety of activities to celebrate the Memorial holiday in Atlanta. Three of the top activities you can choose from that will be commemorating those who have fallen while serving our country and protecting our freedom include the Salute to the Troops remembrance program, the Renaissance Festival in Atlanta, or perhaps a day of picnics, barbeques, and shoreside activities on Lanier Lake. There are many other ways, as well as other places, to celebrate Memorial Day, so be sure to check your city's website for activities and events scheduled in your area!

Welcome To Holidays & Special Occasions!

Welcome to Holidays & Special Occasions - The Official Blog! Here you will find information and resources about all your favorite holidays and year-round special occasions, so check back often to help prepare for your next event or celebration!