Memorial Day Activities, Lesson Plans & Printables

What Is Memorial Day?

Memorial Day is an important national holiday that honors and remembers those who died serving in the U.S. military. Once known as Decoration Day, this holiday originated following the American Civil War, when many cities held observances in May for the families of soldiers killed in battle, and citizens placed flowers on the graves of the loved ones they’d lost. Following World War I, its name changed to Memorial Day, and the day was used to honor those who died while serving the United States armed forces.

Originally observed on May 30 every year, Memorial day is now observed on the last Monday in May. This was changed in 1971 to allow for a three-day weekend, enjoyed today as Memorial Day weekend.

Memorial Day Activities for the Classroom

Browse this collection of Memorial Day worksheets and printables for classroom activities that honor the men and women who lost their lives in American wars. Help your students to understand the meaning of Memorial Day with lesson plans and teaching resources for learning about the U.S. Civil War, World War I, World War II, and the Vietnam War, as well as the heroes and heroines who have served the country in various ways.

Explore American history with social studies activities, build on students’ reading and writing skills with ELA activities that explore the connection between history and poetry, or develop students’ vocabulary with crosswords and word searches all about Memorial Day and the national anthem.