Memorial Day 2026, observed on the last Monday in May, will see flags lowered to half-staff in every state as part of a nationwide tradition to honour military members who died in service. The day is one of the 11 federal holidays in the calendar year, though it remains at the discretion of individual employers whether to grant time off or additional pay.
Falling on Monday, May 25, 2026, the holiday unofficially marks the start of warmer months, often associated with barbecues, yard work, and pool openings. However, its primary purpose is remembrance, with ceremonies and moments of silence held across the country.
Indigenous Peoples’ Day, also observed as Columbus Day, will be on Monday, October 12, 2026. Like Memorial Day, it is a federal holiday, but observance and paid time off vary by employer.
