The Friday before Memorial Day is designated National Poppy Day in the United States. Congress made it official in 2017.
Red poppies became a symbol of remembrance for those lost in battle during World War I. In the years since, the poppy has become recognized worldwide.
In fact the poppy is now so world-wide a symbol of remembrance that it was used on the cover of my own memoir https://fremantlepress.com.au/books/and-then-like-my-dreams/ – although I did wonder if that was a bit like over-egging the pud …
I’d forgotten that. I vaguely remembered the cover but not poppies specifically. Just a vague recollection of something red. Looking back at it (thanks for the link), I’d say no, not overdone.
i just love poppies!
I can’t say I’ve ever seen them growing anywhere, or maybe just didn’t recognize them at the time. But they’d be hard to miss — so big and bright.
you would regcognize them if you did, they definitely demand to be seen
“Where have all the flowers gone?
Long time passing.
Where have all the flowers gone?
Long time ago.
Where have all the flowers gone?
The girls have picked them every one.
Oh, When will they ever learn?
Oh, When will they ever learn?”
– Pete Seeger
A truly unforgettable song. As meaningful today as when it was released in 1960.
I didn’t realize that it became an official day. Thank you for sharing that little tidbit. I have written a few poppy-themed haiku in the past, but I think it is time for another one.
Actually, I didn’t realize it was an official day either until yesterday. I was looking for Memorial Day material when I came across the Poppy Day information.
Well, the poppies are a symbol for much more.
We like Georgia O’Keeffe’s Red Poppy. Here are our red poppies
https://fabfourblog.com/2026/06/03/poppies-2/
Keep well
The Fab Four of Cley
🙂 🙂 🙂 🙂