Memorial Day, observed on the last Monday in May each year, will be marked in 2026 with flags lowered to half-staff in every state, continuing a nationwide tradition to honour military members who died in service. The day, one of 11 US federal holidays, unofficially signals the start of warmer months, often associated with barbecues, yard work and pool openings.
While the federal government mandates half-staff flag protocol on Memorial Day, individual employers retain discretion over whether to grant time off or additional pay for work on federal holidays. The tradition of lowering flags is one of the few occasions when it occurs across all states simultaneously.
Indigenous Peoples’ Day, also observed as Columbus Day, falls on Monday, October 12 in 2026, though it is not directly related to Memorial Day observances. The full list of 2026 US federal holidays has been revealed, with Memorial Day being a key date of remembrance.
