US Memorial Day is celebrated on the last Monday of May and is a federal holiday originally honoring the fallen soldiers of the Civil War, but this honor was extended to commemorate all American soldiers who have fought and died in all wars. The holiday is observed across America, with various ceremonies held by different state governments and veterans organisations.

Formerly known as Decoration Day, Memorial Day also marks to beginning of the summer season, and many families take this time to visit the gravesides of their loved ones or attend church services where they can pray for the fallen soldiers. A minute's silence is held in their honor at 3pm and volunteers quite often place American flags by each of the grave sites in national cemeteries.

Though Memorial Day is indeed a solemn commemorative event, the weekend prior to Memorial Day is often a time for family and friends to get together and enjoy the start of summer. Since people are given the Monday off work, Memorial Day weekend is a popular time for families to take short getaways, perhaps to their lake cabin or to an outdoor music festival.

A very small number of US citizens had an extensive number of family members or friends who have served in the American Armed Forces in the last 20 years. However, according to recent online surveys, more than 20% will be honoring 2-3 soldiers that they know, who have served in the army, the majority of these being men as opposed to women.

Many US citizens visit different towns and states to commemorate Memorial Day. Many Americans visit Washington DC,for the annual Memorial Day parade to commemorate and honor solidiers who were killed during service. The parade , features many local marching bands, patriotic floats and military figures like the U.S Marines, the Navy Honor Guard and local cadets and boy scouts from neighbouring towns.

Elsewhere in the country parades are held in several cities in remembrance of the servicemen and women who've fought and died for their country. These ceremonies are also a way of honoring living veterans and those currently fighting overseas. Every year the city of Chicago hosts a large Memorial Day parade along State Street, which draws crowds of over 10,000 people. New York City also hosts a Memorial Day parade at Broadway and Dyckman as well as a Commemoration Ceremony at the SummerStage in Central Park.

Fiona Roy writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.