Memorial Day Decorations

Civil decorations

Memorial Day decorations can be both somber and festive at the same time. The dual nature of the holiday (as marker of the commencement of the summer season and reminder of those soldiers lost to their families and loved ones in times of war) creates unique concerns for decorators, but also affords an opportunity to express patriotism, national pride, and familial closeness.

History of Memorial Day

Immediately after the Civil War, a Union general observed a striking Confederate tradition: survivors decorated the graves of fallen soldiers with wreaths and garlands of native flowers. Impressed by the loyalty and appreciation expressed by this gesture, General Logan decided to institute a similar practice in the entire country. Just as the ancient Greeks had honored their dead heroes, Americans came to commemorate fallen soldiers with a holiday; a holiday that eventually became Memorial Day.

Although originally organized at the state level, Memorial Day became a federal holiday in 1967, and was further codified by the Uniform Holidays Bill of June 28, 1968, which set the date of the holiday as the last Monday in May.

Flying our colors

Memorial Day decorations should reflect the patriotic nature of the holiday. When decorating the home, use red, white, and blue bunting. While an appropriate display of the flag is always welcome, some find using miniature version of the flag problematic. These displays often come without the attendant pomp and ceremony used to treat authentic flags, which are always displayed at half-mast on Memorial Day. People differ on appropriate uses of the flag, but as long as the intent of the decorator is respectful, a display of flag-themed accessories (such as plates, cups, or fabrics) would be considered innocuous by most.

Aside from the more flagrant displays of patriotism, Memorial Day decorations can incorporate more subtle arrangements, such as simply using red and blue napkins with a white tablecloth, or setting the table with an appropriately colored bouquet of flowers as a centerpiece.

Start your engines

Despite the rather dark overtones of the holiday, Memorial Day does mark the unofficial beginning of the summer season. Consider choosing picnic or beach accessories that reflect patriotic inspiration, such as red, white, and blue pieces or a basket adorned with a simple yellow ribbon.

Memorial Day parades take place in many major cities, featuring floats festooned with eagles, flowers, and historical images of soldiers. The Indianapolis 500 occurs on Memorial weekend as well, providing another opportunity for casual gatherings.

Volunteer army

The most important decoration on Memorial Day belongs to the fallen soldiers of past conflicts. Many national cemeteries organize clean up details on the holiday, when volunteers can help maintain and decorate the graves of the soldiers interred there. Local churches and civic groups donate flowers for the day, to ensure that no hero goes unsung.

More information on Memorial Day decorations