Last updated on May 29th, 2025
Memorial Day, observed on the last Monday of May, is a solemn federal holiday dedicated to honoring the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. It’s a day of remembrance for all those who made the ultimate sacrifice, both in times of peace and during war.
The origins of Memorial Day trace back to the aftermath of the Civil War, a conflict that resulted in an immense loss of American lives. Initially known as “Decoration Day,” communities across the nation began holding tributes to fallen soldiers, decorating their graves with flowers. Major General John A. Logan, head of the Grand Army of the Republic (the post-Civil War Union veterans’ organization, not the one from Star Wars, lol), formally called for a nationwide “Decoration Day” on May 30, 1868, for the purpose of strewing flowers or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country.
Over time, this observance expanded to honor all American service members who died in any war, and the name “Memorial Day” gradually became more prevalent. In 1971, Memorial Day was officially declared a national holiday and moved to the last Monday in May to create a three-day weekend.
Traditions on Memorial Day include visiting cemeteries and memorials, where volunteers often place American flags on graves. Many people attend parades and memorial services. A significant tradition is the “National Moment of Remembrance,” observed at 3:00 p.m. local time, encouraging Americans to pause for a minute of silence to honor the fallen. While the holiday is often associated with the unofficial start of summer, it’s crucial to remember its true meaning: a day to reflect on the immense sacrifices made to secure the freedoms we enjoy.
Local Memorial Day Events
2025 Memorial Day commemoration at Nevada Veterans Memorial Plaza: Mon, May 26th starting at 8:00 a.m. at the Sparks Marina (300 Howard Dr). [More Info]
Free Memorial Day Weekend Group Walk/Jog/Run with Kaia FIT Sierra: Sat, May 24th from 7:00-8:00 a.m. at the Virginia Lake Recreation Area in Reno. [More Info]
Summer Salute: a car show benefiting veterans on Saturday, May 24th at Rancho San Rafael Park in Reno, from 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. [More Info]
Festival of Mariachi & World Folklore: Sat, May 24th at Idlewild Park in Reno, from Noon-6:00 p.m. [More Info]
Additional Events Information:
https://thisisreno.com/2025/05/memorial-day-services-nv
https://www.kolotv.com/community/calendar
https://allevents.in/reno-us/memorial-day
https://www.2news.com/local-events/#/show?start=2025-05-24&distance=20
