Wreaths Across America
Volunteers place live balsam wreaths on 11,500+ graves at Alabama National Cemetery, saying each veteran's name aloud.
Each December, thousands of volunteers gather at Alabama National Cemetery to take part in one of the most moving annual traditions in Shelby County — the placement of live balsam wreaths on more than 11,500 veteran graves.
The Tradition
Wreaths Across America is a national initiative with a simple, powerful mission: Remember. Honor. Teach. At participating cemeteries across the country, volunteers place wreaths on veteran graves and speak each veteran’s name aloud — an act of remembrance that ensures no service member is forgotten, even in the depths of winter.
Alabama National Cemetery in Montevallo has participated in this initiative since 2009. Each year the event draws approximately 2,500 attendees, making it one of the largest Wreaths Across America gatherings in the state.
What Happens
Volunteers arrive at 11:00 AM for the wreath-laying ceremony. After a brief program, participants fan out across the cemetery grounds to place wreaths and speak the names of the veterans interred there. With more than 11,500 graves, every volunteer’s contribution matters — and the collective effect of thousands of fresh green wreaths against the white headstones is deeply affecting.
How to Participate
Wreaths can be sponsored through the Wreaths Across America website at wreathsacrossamerica.org. Sponsors can dedicate a wreath to a specific veteran or to veterans in general. Walk-in volunteers are also welcome on the day of the event.
When
Held annually on National Wreaths Across America Day in December — the third Saturday of the month. The 2026 event is scheduled for December 19th at 11:00 AM.