Fort Snelling National Cemetery in Minnesota is one of the most sacred places in the United States. Stretching across hundreds of acres, it is the final resting place for more than 200,000 service members, veterans, and their families. For generations, families have honored their loved ones here with grave decorations, wreaths, and flowers—symbols of remembrance, love, and gratitude.
If you are planning to decorate a grave at Fort Snelling, you may be wondering about the traditions, rules, and options available. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Fort Snelling grave decorations—from seasonal wreaths to flower delivery services—so you can honor your loved one with dignity and care.
Grave decorations are more than just flowers or wreaths. They carry deep meaning for families and communities.
A symbol of respect – Decorations show that a loved one’s memory lives on.
A connection across generations – Families often bring children and grandchildren to help place flowers or wreaths, teaching them about sacrifice and service.
A national tradition – Across the U.S., from Arlington to Fort Snelling, wreath-laying is a cherished tradition.
A personal tribute – Decorations allow families to express individuality and love.
Because Fort Snelling is a national cemetery, the Department of Veterans Affairs has specific guidelines to ensure uniformity, respect, and safety.
Fresh cut flowers may be placed on graves at any time of year.
Artificial flowers are allowed from October 10 through April 15.
Christmas wreaths, potted plants, and grave blankets are permitted during the holiday season but must be removed by January 20.
Permanent plantings (shrubs, trees, bushes) are not allowed.
Glass or breakable items are prohibited for safety reasons.
Unauthorized decorations (balloons, stuffed animals, pinwheels, flags outside of official holidays) may be removed by cemetery staff.
By following these rules, families ensure that all graves remain respectful, uniform, and beautiful year-round.
One of the most cherished traditions at Fort Snelling is placing Christmas wreaths during the holiday season.
A symbol of eternal life and remembrance.
A gesture of warmth during Minnesota’s cold winter months.
A national tradition linked to Wreaths Across America, which coordinates wreath placements at cemeteries across the U.S.
Each December, thousands of volunteers and families gather to place wreaths on graves at Fort Snelling, ensuring every veteran is remembered. Many families also arrange for professional wreath delivery services, especially if they cannot visit in person.
Not all families live near Fort Snelling, but many still want to decorate their loved one’s grave. That’s where grave flower delivery services come in.
Families choose arrangements online or through a local florist.
The florist delivers and places the flowers directly at the gravesite.
Many services provide photographs of the decorated grave, so families can see the tribute.
Seasonal flowers – Spring and summer blooms to brighten graves.
Patriotic arrangements – Red, white, and blue flowers for Memorial Day, Veterans Day, or Independence Day.
Holiday wreaths and poinsettias – Festive decorations for the Christmas season.
Custom tributes – Arrangements tailored to reflect personal taste, military service, or favorite colors.
This option allows families—whether in Minnesota or across the country—to maintain a connection with loved ones buried at Fort Snelling.
Several organizations and local businesses provide wreath services specifically for Fort Snelling. Families can order ahead of time and have a wreath delivered directly to the gravesite.
Convenience – Perfect for families living out of state.
Quality control – Professionally made wreaths last longer in Minnesota’s winter weather.
Peace of mind – Many services send photos as proof of delivery.
Some services are tied to veterans’ organizations, ensuring that each wreath carries not only beauty but also deep respect for military service.
Memorial wreaths are especially popular on Memorial Day and Veterans Day, when thousands of visitors come to Fort Snelling to honor fallen heroes.
Patriotic wreaths – Featuring red, white, and blue flowers or ribbons.
Traditional evergreen wreaths – A timeless choice that symbolizes eternal life.
Custom ribbon wreaths – Personalized with names, ranks, or special messages.
Each wreath is a reminder that sacrifice is never forgotten and that every life honored at Fort Snelling carries a story worth remembering.
Beyond family tributes, many Minnesotans participate in community events that decorate Fort Snelling’s graves.
Wreaths Across America – Fort Snelling Chapter – Volunteers place thousands of wreaths each December.
Memorial Day flag placements – Every grave receives a U.S. flag, placed by veterans, families, and community groups.
Adopt-a-Grave programs – Some organizations allow families or volunteers to “adopt” graves to ensure they are decorated throughout the year.
Volunteering is a powerful way to honor not only personal family members but also the broader veteran community.
If you are planning your own visit, here are some helpful tips:
Check the rules ahead of time – Make sure decorations are permitted during your visit.
Choose weather-appropriate flowers – Minnesota winters can be harsh; evergreens and wreaths hold up best.
Personalize with care – Small tokens like ribbons or notes are allowed if they meet cemetery guidelines.
Visit during holidays – Memorial Day, Veterans Day, and Christmas are especially meaningful times to decorate.
Consider professional services – If distance or weather prevents you from visiting, delivery services ensure your loved one is still honored.
For many families, decorating graves at Fort Snelling is more than a task—it’s a healing ritual. Standing at a loved one’s grave, placing flowers or a wreath, and reflecting on their service provides comfort and a sense of closeness.
Families often describe it as:
A moment of peace in the middle of grief.
A tradition that keeps memories alive across generations.
A teaching opportunity for younger family members about respect, sacrifice, and patriotism.
Fort Snelling grave decorations are a beautiful way to honor the men and women who served our nation and their families. From Christmas wreaths to Memorial Day flowers, each decoration is a reminder of love, respect, and remembrance.
Whether you decorate in person or arrange delivery from afar, you are taking part in a powerful tradition that connects families, communities, and the nation as a whole.
By following cemetery guidelines, choosing meaningful tributes, and participating in volunteer efforts, you ensure that the heroes resting at Fort Snelling are never forgotten.