Guest blog post by National Poppy Committee Chair Karen Toll

We know when it is: the Friday before Memorial Day.

We know why: to remember those who died fighting for our great country. The poppy represents the bloodshed.

But are YOU prepared for National Poppy Day® 2026? 

What are your plans?

Visual ideas are the easiest and most noticeable. We will all wear red poppies on National Poppy Day.

We will make them, buy poppies from American Legion Flag & Emblem Sales (or your preferred vendor to get them ready for poppy distribution days), or use already made poppies. If you do not have any, now is a good time to start the process of purchasing them before it’s too late. Emblem Sales is loaded with so many poppy items. They offer shirts, pins, aprons, tablecloths, stickers, and collection cans for your donations at distribution. Find them here. 

Perhaps you will be distributing poppies. Do not forget to tell as many people who will listen to why the poppy is so important. Give them the historical facts! The poppy became the flower of The American Legion Family after World War I and to this day is a very important part of our Legion Family. While preparing for National Poppy Day, don’t forget to include your Juniors and young Sons of The American Legion. Let them assist with making and distributing the poppies — teaching the next generation why the poppy is so beneficial.

Let everyone know that we use the monetary donations collected to assist active-duty military, veterans, and their families. Do not forget to share that we also assist Honor Flight with our poppy donations!

Maybe you are having a poppy party or a poppy painting party. A potluck dinner or even a dance. Whatever the gathering is, be sure to stop and share your story about poppies with those attending. The more we share the WHY of the poppy, the more interest we will have in our beloved program. Don’t forget to carry membership applications with you to share with your new friends!