Memorial Day, observed on the last Monday in May, will see flags lowered to half-staff in every state in 2026. The federal holiday, which falls on May 25, honors military members who died in service and is one of only a few occasions when flags are lowered nationwide.
The day is recognized as one of the 11 federal holidays in the calendar year. While it unofficially marks the start of warmer months with barbecues and pool openings, the solemn tradition of flying flags at half-staff is observed across the country.
Individual employers have discretion over whether to offer time off or additional pay for work on federal holidays. Memorial Day is one such holiday where workplace policies may vary.
Other federal holidays in 2026 include Indigenous Peoples’ Day (also observed as Columbus Day) on Monday, October 12.
