Memorial Day Weekend is known as the unofficial start to summer, but more importantly it is a day to remember and honor our fallen heroes who have served in the United States armed forces dedicating their lives to our country, its citizens, and our democracy. This guide will help you plan a weekend of meaningful ceremonies, festive activities, and local events that recognize U.S. military personnel and their courageous commitment to our freedoms.
Weekend Events
May 24-26
525 Arch Street, Philadelphia
Spend your memorial day weekend at the National Constitution Center for famous memorials and monuments, exhibits and artifacts, flag ceremonies, trivia, artifact highlights, and family friendly scholarly talks and crafts. Remember the nation’s fallen servicemen and take a look at the complexities of how a nation remembers.
May 24-26
Museum of the American Revolution, 101 South Third Street, Philadelphia
Memorial Day Weekend at The Museum of the American Revolution is a great way to commemorate the men and women who lost their lives serving in the United States armed forces. The Revolutionary War is extra significant to Memorial Day because it marks the creation of the United States armed forces– Army, Navy, and Marine Corps. You will not want to miss theatrical performances, special talks, and the highlighted exhibit; Banners of Liberty: An Exhibition of Original Revolutionary War Flags. Veterans, Military, and Blue Star Families have free admission all weekend!
Sunday, May 25 || 12-2pm
Laurel Hill East, 3822 Ridge Ave, Philadelphia
Commemorate the special American holiday and remember our fallen soldiers at the Laurel Hill Cemetery for a reverent and important ceremony. Laurel Hill is the site of Philadelphia’s first Memorial Day in 1868. The ceremony will include speakers, wreath-laying, speeches, music, honor guards, and the dedication of special veteran markers to three previously unmarked veterans.
Monday, May 26 || 4 – 9pm
411 S Christopher Columbus Blvd, Philadelphia
Memorial Day weekend kicks off Moshulu’s weekend entertainment with their Memorial Day Smoke on the Water event. Enjoy the city’s most iconic waterfront venue with friends and family–21 and older. You do not want to miss music from world renowned DJs Aktive and DJ Flow, delicious food and drinks, and top-tier summer vibes.
May 17 || 7am
4601 Richmond Street Philadelphia
Bridesburg’s Memorial Day Parade is a significant annual tradition that was started after World War II by a Bridesburg resident who wanted to make sure all service men and women who didn’t make it home from war were remembered and honored. Participate in Bridesburg’s Memorial day 5k or one mile honor walk on May 17 in order to raise funds to make one of the oldest and longest Memorial Day Parades in Pennsylvania possible. Race day registration will begin at 7 am and close at 8 am the day of the race!
Saturday, May 24 || 4 – 7pm
101 S. Columbus Blvd, Philadelphia
Grab your tickets to the Memorial Day Weekend White Party Cruise on Ben Franklin Yacht for a night you won’t forget this May 24. Enjoy a three hour party, two hour cruise, three boat decks, amazing views, and top Philly DJs.
Memorial Day Parades
Monday, May 26 || 10:00 am
Kennett Square, PA
Remember our fallen heroes who make our freedom possible at the Kennett Square Memorial Day Parade– a favorite local tradition dating back to 1948. The volunteer-run parade is made possible by community members led and advised by the Kennett Collaborative, American Legion Post 491, and VFW Post 5467.
Monday, May 26 || 10am
Media, PA
With a mission to gather the community in remembrance of our fallen heroes who dedicated their lives to our freedoms, The U.S. Veterans Legacy Project will be hosting their annual Memorial Day Parade on May 26. Grab your friends and family to help you commemorate such a special day.
