National Wreath Across America Day

Are you ready to wreath and roll? National Wreath Across America Day is here to honor those who have served and fallen, and to deck the halls with wreaths of honor. Join in the wreath-laying extravaganza and pay tribute to our heroes in a unique and meaningful way!

When is Wreath Across America Day?

It's national wreath across america day on the 17th December.

What is National Wreath Across America Day?

If you've ever wondered how to show your appreciation for the brave men and women who have sacrificed so much, this is the day for you. National Wreath Across America Day is celebrated on December 17th each year, with volunteers coordinating wreath-laying ceremonies at veterans' cemeteries all across the country. The goal? To place beautiful, handmade wreaths on every fallen soldier's grave, acknowledging their service and sacrifices.

The Internet History of National Wreath Across America Day

It all started back in 1992 when Morrill Worcester, the owner of the Worcester Wreath Company in Maine, found himself with a surplus of wreaths after the holiday season. With a desire to give back, Morrill came up with the idea of laying wreaths on the graves at Arlington National Cemetery, a tradition that had been neglected for years. With the help of a few dedicated volunteers and the support of veterans' organizations, the first wreath-laying ceremony took place at Arlington in 2006, and the movement quickly grew.

Social media played a significant role in spreading the word about National Wreath Across America Day. People began sharing photos and stories of their wreath-laying experiences, inspiring others to get involved. The hashtag #WreathsAcrossAmerica started trending, and soon, wreath-laying ceremonies were taking place in cemeteries all across the nation.

How to Celebrate National Wreath Across America Day

Participating in National Wreath Across America Day is easy! You can volunteer to help lay wreaths at a local cemetery, or you can donate to the cause and sponsor a wreath. Each wreath is adorned with a red bow, symbolizing the bloodshed, a fragrant evergreen base, representing everlasting life, and a sprig of holly, reminding us of the sacrifice made by those who served.

By participating in this solemn and powerful event, you are not only honoring the memory of our fallen heroes but also sending a message of gratitude to their families. It's a chance to come together as a community and show our unwavering support for those who have served our country.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the record for the most wreaths laid in a single hour is a staggering 40,000? That's a whole lot of wreath magic happening all at once!

History behind the term 'Wreath Across America'

1992

Founding of Wreaths Across America

In 1992, Wreaths Across America was founded by Morrill Worcester, owner of Worcester Wreath Company in Harrington, Maine. The mission of the organization was to remember and honor the veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country by placing wreaths on the graves of fallen soldiers during the holiday season.

1992

The Beginning: Arlington National Cemetery

In 1992, a group of volunteers in Harrington, Maine initiated a project to honor veterans by laying wreaths on the graves at Arlington National Cemetery during the holiday season. The idea was to remember and honor the sacrifices made by the men and women who served in the armed forces.

2005

Arlington National Cemetery

In 2005, with the help of dedicated volunteers and the sponsorship of the Worcester Wreath Company, the tradition of placing wreaths on the graves of fallen soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery began. It started with the placement of 5,000 wreaths, but quickly gained attention and support from people across the nation.

2005

Expanding the Tradition

The tradition gradually gained traction over the years, and in 2005, a nonprofit organization called Wreaths Across America was formed. Their mission was to expand the project nationwide, encouraging individuals and groups to sponsor wreaths to be placed on the graves of fallen soldiers at participating cemeteries across the country.

2007

Official Formation of Wreaths Across America Day

In 2007, Congress officially recognized the dedication and efforts of Wreaths Across America by declaring the second Saturday in December of each year as 'Wreaths Across America Day.' This helped spread the mission and encouraged more volunteers to join the cause and honor veterans in cemeteries nationwide.

2007

National Day of Remembrance

In 2007, the U.S. Congress officially proclaimed the second Saturday of December as 'Wreaths Across America Day.' This designation aimed to emphasize the importance of remembering and honoring the sacrifices of veterans, and to encourage communities across America to participate in this act of remembrance and gratitude.

2014

Honoring Veterans' Sacrifices

As the movement grew, more and more cemeteries joined in the effort, and the tradition extended beyond Arlington National Cemetery. This nationwide initiative allowed for the placement of wreaths on the graves of veterans in local cemeteries, ensuring that their sacrifices and service were remembered, honored, and respected.

2014

Expansion and International Recognition

In 2014, Wreaths Across America expanded its reach globally, with wreath-laying ceremonies taking place at national cemeteries in several countries, including Mexico, Canada, and Normandy, France. This international recognition showcased the growing impact and significance of the organization's mission.

2018

Over 1.8 Million Wreaths Laid

In 2018, Wreaths Across America achieved a major milestone by laying over 1.8 million wreaths at more than 1,600 participating locations across the United States. This tremendous display of appreciation and remembrance illustrated the collective effort and commitment of volunteers who joined together to honor the memory of fallen heroes.

2020

A Global Initiative

Over time, the awareness and impact of Wreaths Across America expanded internationally. The organization received requests from various countries to participate and honor their own fallen soldiers. This global recognition emphasizes the power of a wreath to symbolize gratitude and remembrance, transcending borders and bringing communities together in unity.

Did you know?

Did you know that the record for the most wreaths laid in a single hour is a staggering 40,000? That's a whole lot of wreath magic happening all at once!