National Wreaths Across America Day
National Wreaths Across America Day is a solemn annual event where volunteers place wreaths on veterans’ graves across the United States to honor their service and sacrifice. The tradition embodies three core values: Remember the fallen, Honor those who serve, and Teach future generations about freedom’s value.
Quick Facts
When is it: Third Saturday in December
Tagged as: Veterans remembrance event
What’s the hashtag: #WreathsAcrossAmerica
When was it founded: Officially established in 2007
Who founded it: Morrill Worcester, owner of Worcester Wreath Company
History of National Wreaths Across America Day
What began as a simple gesture in 1992 with 5,000 surplus wreaths being placed at Arlington National Cemetery has grown into a national movement. The initiative gained widespread attention in 2005 when a photo of snow-covered gravestones adorned with wreaths went viral online, leading to the official establishment of Wreaths Across America as a nonprofit organization in 2007.
Timeline
- 1992: First 5,000 wreaths donated to Arlington National Cemetery
- 2007: Official establishment as a nonprofit organization
- 2012: Millionth wreath placed at Arlington National Cemetery
- 2014: First complete coverage of Arlington National Cemetery
- 2022: Expanded to over 3,700 locations nationwide
Dates for Coming Years
| Year | Month | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | December | 14 | Saturday |
| 2025 | December | 20 | Saturday |
| 2026 | December | 19 | Saturday |
| 2027 | December | 18 | Saturday |
| 2028 | December | 16 | Saturday |
Observed
The day is marked by coordinated wreath-laying ceremonies at thousands of locations across the United States, at sea, and abroad. Volunteers speak each veteran’s name aloud while placing wreaths, ensuring their memory lives on.
Fun Facts About Wreaths Across America
- Over 3 million volunteers participate annually
- More than 4,600 locations participate across all 50 states
- Each wreath is made of fresh balsam
- Truckers donate their time and resources to transport wreaths
- One-third of volunteers are children
Quiz
- What year did Wreaths Across America become official?
- How many wreaths were first donated to Arlington?
- In which state did the movement begin?
(Answers: 2007, 5,000, Maine)
FAQs
- Are these Christmas wreaths? No, they are veterans’ remembrance wreaths
- Does the organization receive government funding? No, it relies entirely on donations and volunteers
- Can anyone participate? Yes, volunteers of all ages are welcome
Importance of Wreaths Across America Day
The day serves as a powerful reminder of veterans’ sacrifices during the holiday season. It brings communities together, teaches younger generations about service and sacrifice, and ensures that fallen service members are not forgotten.
Related Events
- Veterans Day
- Memorial Day
- Gold Star Mothers Day
- Armed Forces Day
- Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day
