Here's what Memorial Day weekend has looked like since it became an official holiday in 1971

Memorial Day began in 1971.Jon Levy/ Getty

• Memorial Day officially became a national holiday in 1971.
• Throughout the latter part of the 20th century, people would go to the beach, enjoy the great outdoors, and travel during the three-day weekend.
• This year, most of the traditions have changed, as the country adapts to coronavirus guidelines.

Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer, as people typically flock to beaches, barbecues, and parties.

But the holiday wasn't always about celebration and a long weekend. The holiday was originally named Decoration Day and was a day to honor the soldiers who died in the Civil War. It was celebrated on May 30. It wasn't until 1968, when Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, that the holiday was moved to the last Monday in May.

In 1971, Memorial Day finally became a national holiday that honors soldiers who died while defending the country.

Although this year's celebrations may look a bit different because of the coronavirus pandemic, the traditions of the holiday haven't changed much over the decades.