Memorial Day Weekend 2025: Dates, Meaning, and What’s Open
Memorial Day 2025 will be observed on Monday, May 26. As always, it falls on the last Monday of May, creating a long holiday weekend starting Friday, May 23 through Monday, May 26.
A Federal Holiday Honoring Fallen Service Members
Memorial Day is one of 11 federal holidays in the United States. Officially recognized in 1971, the day honors U.S. military personnel who died in service to the country. Its roots go back to the post-Civil War era, when communities began decorating the graves of fallen soldiers. Originally known as Decoration Day, it was formalized in 1868 by General John A. Logan, who set May 30 as a day of remembrance for Union soldiers.
After World War I, Memorial Day’s scope expanded to honor all Americans who died in military service. In 1968, the Uniform Monday Holiday Act moved the observance to the last Monday in May, ensuring a three-day weekend for many workers.
Are Mail and Delivery Services Open?
Most delivery and mail services will be closed on Memorial Day:
- USPS will suspend mail delivery and retail services.
- UPS will not operate on Memorial Day, except for UPS Express Critical.
- FedEx will also halt deliveries, although FedEx Custom Critical will remain operational.
Grocery Stores and Retail
Unlike government offices, most major grocery stores and retailers will remain open on Memorial Day. This includes:
- Publix
- Walmart
- Target
- Trader Joe’s
- Whole Foods
- Aldi
- Sprouts
- Fresh Market
Hours may vary by location, so it’s best to check with your local store.
More…
- https://www.floridatoday.com/story/entertainment/2025/05/21/memorial-day-2025-heres-where-to-observe-the-day-in-brevard/83493777007/
- https://www.auroranewsregister.com/commentary/heres-memorable-memorial-day-2025
- https://www.palmbeachpost.com/story/news/2025/05/19/memorial-day-2025-when-and-whats-open-and-closed-in-florida/83728466007/
