Many American cities hold parades and ceremonies on Memorial Day, with the largest ones taking place in Chicago, New York and Washington, D.C. Other rituals include visits to cemeteries and placing US flags on soldiers’ graves or wearing a red poppy. Starting in 2000, all Americans are supposed to hold a National Moment of Remembrance at 3 pm. On a lighter note, many Americans use the long weekend to take holidays, throw parties or organize family barbecues.