What is the official name of the U.S. holiday commonly called Memorial Day?

The official name of the U.S. holiday commonly called Memorial Day is Memorial Day.

The holiday was widely known as Decoration Day during the 19th and early 20th centuries. That name described the practice of decorating the graves of Civil War dead. Over time, Memorial Day became the more common and official name, especially as the observance expanded to honor Americans who died in later conflicts.

Memorial Day is different from Armed Forces Day, which honors people currently serving in the U.S. military, and Veterans Day, which honors military veterans. Its focus is people who died during military service.

Federal law identifies the holiday as Memorial Day and places it on the last Monday of May. Local ceremonies may use older language, but the modern federal name remains Memorial Day.