Memorial Day is considered by many to be the real kickoff to summer, but it is much more than just a three-day weekend. Do you know about its ties to the Civil War? Why do some folks wear poppies that day? Read on to find out. Decoration Day Memorial Day was originally known as Decoration Day and was established to commemorate soldiers killed in the Civil War. The three-day weekend The day was originally observed on May 30, but it was moved to the last Monday in May nearly 50 years ago to ensure a three-day weekend.