Memorial Day is celebrated on the last Monday in May each year. Photo: composition LR/Aviation 21
Congestion in much of the country. The United States is getting ready for an unprecedented weekend for Memorial Day to be celebrated this Monday, May 27. According to a forecast from the American Automobile Association (AAA), millions of citizens will embark on trips to international domestic destinations for the long weekend. Airports will not be immune to this situation, since it is estimated that around 3.5 million people will travel this way.
Why would Memorial Day record record travel in the United States?
The American Automobile Association (AAA) reported likely major congestion on highways and airports across the country this weekend due to Memorial Day. This unusual event would be due to the fact that this holiday is celebrated on Monday the 27th, which offers the possibility that millions of citizens of USA They can go to their destinations from the weekend.
Memorial Day 2024 will record an unprecedented Memorial Day weekend. Photo: DCPS
The forecast of the renowned American association states that about 43.8 million people will travel this weekend. Likewise, it details that approximately 38.4 million people would travel by car to their destinations. “We haven’t seen Memorial Day weekend travel numbers like these in almost 20 years,” Paula Twidale, senior vice president of AAA’s travel division, told CBS News.
Around 38.4 million people will travel by car. Photo: S&P
What is the origin of Memorial Day?
He Memorial Day, originally known as Decoration Day, originated after the American Civil War to honor soldiers who died in combat. On May 30, 1868, the first official Memorial Day was celebrated at Arlington National Cemetery, where flowers were placed on the graves of Confederate and Union soldiers.
Over time, Memorial Day expanded to honor all American service members who died in service. In 1971, it became an official federal holiday which is celebrated on the last Monday in May, In addition to marking the unofficial start of summer in USA.
Memorial Day is considered a federal holiday in the United States. Photo: SDUT
What are the most popular destinations for Memorial Day?
During the weekend of Memorial Daymany Americans gravitate toward destinations that combine commemorative and recreational activities. Washington, DC and Arlington, Virginia, are iconic places to remember the fallenwith solemn ceremonies at Arlington National Cemetery and visits to historical monuments in the country’s capital. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is another popular destination, known for its Military Appreciation Day celebrations. and its extensive beaches that attract families in search of sun and outdoor activities.
On the other hand, there are other destinations, such as the city of Chicago in Illinois, offering patriotic events: parades and ceremonies, as well as recreational activities at Navy Pier and the beaches of Lake Michigan. Likewise, Charleston, South Carolina, combines its rich history with nearby beaches, a cultural and relaxing experience.
Finally, destinations like Nashville, Tennessee, and Key West, Floridaare also usually very popular, thanks to their musical events and exciting nightlife, respectively, which makes them ideal places to enjoy a long weekend in the United States.
