Memorial Day in Washington DC is a time of respect and remembrance. The city’s tradition of honoring the nation’s heroes continues through events that combine historical reflections, music and tributes.
May 25-26
Rockville Hometown Christmas Music Festival at RedGate Park
The free, family-friendly music festival in the city of Rockville features Everclear, a ’90s alternative rock band, and a Bon Jovi/Journey tribute group as headliners over the two-day event.
On Saturday, BonJourneyNY takes the stage at 5:30 pm, followed by Everclear on Sunday at 5:45 pm.
In addition to the headline acts, the two stages at Hometown Holidays will offer a variety of musical styles, ranging from Colombian folk fusions to genres such as go-go and big band.
For younger ones, there are activities like a moon bounce, crafting, and building sand castles on a sand dune.
Beverage stations and a food court will provide a selection of snacks, including options such as poutine, gyro plates, bubble tea and shaved ice. The event will take place from noon to 7 pm with free admission.
May 25-27
Live! Vienna! Festival
This Memorial Day weekend marks the 40th anniversary of the ¡Viva! festival. Vienna!, an annual community celebration hosted by the Rotary Club of Vienna that transforms the pedestrian streets around the Vienna Town Green with attractions like funnel cake and carousels.
Kids will enjoy classic rides, stalls with treats like cotton candy, and performances by the Singing Princesses of Vienna, while adults can enjoy the outdoor BrewFest with beers from Caboose Brewing Co and Settle Down Easy Brewing Co. and live music from tribute bands on various stages.
Shuttle buses will be available to transport attendees from the Vienna Metro Station and additional parking.
The festival will take place on Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 10pm and on Monday from 10am to 6pm. Admission is free; however, BrewFest tickets, raffles, and certain attractions are required.
May 26
Remembrance Flower Day
One of the most poignant celebrations is Memorial Day at Arlington National Cemetery.
This event allows the public to participate in an emotional tribute. Normally, only the US 3rd Infantry Regiment, known as “The Old Guard”, keeps vigil at the Tomb of the Unknowns.
However, starting in 2022, the public can place flowers at the grave on Memorial Day.
Participants must register in advance at memorialdayflowers.org to receive the flowers provided. At 10 a.m., cemetery historians will give a talk on the history of Decoration Day (now Memorial Day), followed by a walking tour. Registration is not necessary for this tour. The event runs from 8 am to 4:30 pm, with free admission.
National Memorial Day Concert at the US Capitol
Another tradition is National Memorial Day at the US Capitol, which is celebrating its 35th year.
Presented by actors Joe Mantegna and Gary Sinise, the event features the participation of the National Symphony Orchestra.
Tony-winning singer Cynthia Erivo and Gary LeVox of Rascal Flatts will also perform. This free event does not require tickets, but it is recommended to arrive early due to security checks and bag searches.
For those who cannot attend on Sunday, the public will also be able to attend the general rehearsal of the concert on Saturday. Doors open at 5 pm and the concert starts at 8 pm for free.
A Salute to Service: Honoring American Heroes at MGM National Harbor
At MGM National Harbor, “A Salute to Service: Honoring America’s Heroes” offers a musical tribute.
Grammy-nominated duo The War and Treaty will perform, along with three U.S. Air Force musical ensembles: Max Impact, Airmen of Note and Air Force Strings. This free performance, scheduled from 7:30 to 9 pm, requires advance registration.
14th Annual Memorial Day Choral Festival at the Kennedy Center
The Kennedy Center hosts the Memorial Day Choral Festival, which celebrates its 14th edition.
This festival brings the community together through choral arrangements. Each of its events celebrates the lives of those who served and encourages a shared act of remembrance.
The show runs 145 minutes, including a 15-minute intermission. 2pm free; Reservations are required.
may 27th
National Memorial Day Parade
Find a spot along Constitution Avenue NW, between 7th and 17th Streets NW, to watch the annual National Memorial Day Parade.
In this edition, World War II veterans will lead the parade in commemoration of the upcoming 80th anniversary of D-Day.
Actor Anthony Anderson and sportscaster Joe Buck will host this televised parade that will include active duty military personnel, marching bands and performers. The parade will take place from 2 to 4 pm and admission is free.
Falls Church Memorial Day Parade and Festival
Before the Memorial Day parade, a series of activities take place on the streets of Falls Church.
Start with a 3km run at 9 am. Starting at 9:15 am, there will be live music, as well as a festival with attractions for children, stalls and displays of crafts and food.
A memorial ceremony will be held at 11 a.m., followed by the parade on Park Avenue at 2 p.m., featuring floats, marching bands and participation from local organizations. These activities run from 9 am to 5 pm and have free admission.
Annapolis Memorial Day Parade
Among the groups that are part of the Memorial Day parade in Annapolis stands out the US Naval Academy Band, which travels down West Street, around the historic Church Circle and down Main Street before concluding at City Dock. The parade is scheduled for 10 a.m. and admission is free.
Honoring Native Service Members at the National Museum of the American Indian
During Memorial Day at the National Museum of the American Indian there will be a film and talk honoring Native American veterans who lost their lives serving in the United States armed forces.
Enjoy a screening of “The Warrior Tradition” at 2 pm at the Rasmuson Theater to explore the experiences of Native Americans in the military.
Following the film, Alexandra N. Harris will present her book “Why We Serve: Native Americans in the United States Armed Forces,” followed by a signing session at 3:30 p.m. The event will take place from 2 to 4 pm with free admission.
As Washington DC celebrates Memorial Day, these events offer opportunities for reflection, respect and unity. From the solemn grounds of Arlington National Cemetery to the melodic performances at the U.S. Capitol and MGM National Harbor, the city ensures that the legacy of its heroes lives on, honored with dignity and reverence.
May 22, 2024May 22, 2024
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