Memorial Day Weekend in DC

More than just a long weekend, Memorial Day offers a day of remembrance and appreciation for U.S. troops that fought for our country and passed away in service. Formally called Decoration Day, the holiday was officially declared by President Lyndon B. Johnson (in May of 1966) who wanted to honor those who died in the Civil War.

In his General Order No. 11, national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic General John Logan stated, “The 30^th of May, 1868, is designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers, or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion, and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village and hamlet churchyard in the land.”

There’s no place better to celebrate and pay tribute to our nation’s heroes than in our nation’s capitol. Since 2004, Washington D.C. has hosted The National Memorial Day Parade to honor those brave comrades who died in war.

The largest Memorial Day parade in the country is televised and broadcast live to our troops around the world. Attending the parade is a great way to show gratitude to on-duty service members who are separated from their friends and family.

Every year, the parade graces D.C., ushering veterans, service members, service organizations, local and national celebrities, clubs, marching bands and of course floats from Constitution Avenue and 7^th Street, NW to 17^th Street, NW.

Visit the American Veterans Center to learn more about the dates and times of this year’s event.