Memorial Day
United States of America
Memorial Day is an American holiday, observed on the last Monday of May, honoring the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. At first it was known as Decoration Day and its origins date back to the years following the Civil War. It became an official federal holiday in 1971. Many Americans observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries or memorials, holding family gatherings and participating in parades. Unofficially, it marks the beginning of the summer season.
Would you like to know more? Go to Memorial Day History.
May Day
Great Britain
During the month of May, England observe an important ancient tradition: MAY DAY, a public holiday usually celebrated on May 1st. The earliest May Day celebrations appeared with the Floralia or festival of Flora, the Roman goddess of flowers. Similar traditions were the Walpurgis Night of the Germanic countries and the Gaelic god Beltane. Traditional English May Day rites and celebrations include crowning a May Queen and celebrations involving a maypole.
Would you like to know more? Go to May Day facts and times.