Memorial Day in Washington DC: Area Events + Things to Do
The end of May marks a significant time for remembrance in Washington DC at monuments and throughout the city. Whether you’re a local or just visiting DC during this time, here are some of the best things to do for Memorial Day in Washington DC, Northern Virginia, and Maryland counties near the Capital.
Memorial Day Weekend is the unofficial start of summer across the U.S. – and nowhere is the holiday celebrated more poignantly than in our nation’s capital. Veterans are honored at many events throughout the city, and it’s a special time to visit the war memorials on the National Mall.
Whether you’re here for a visit, or a resident of the DMV (that’s shorthand for the District, Maryland, and Virginia for any out-of-towners), there are plenty of ways to get out and observe the holiday by remembering the service and sacrifice of veterans and their families.
*Be sure to confirm each event’s time, location, and ticket requirements if you plan to attend.
Washington, D.C. Memorial Day Weekend Events
The National Memorial Day Parade: Our Sacred Honor
Monday, May 27 | 2PM
This parade is a powerful tribute along Constitution Avenue, showcasing America’s military history through re-enactors, veterans, and active duty personnel. It’s filled with musical acts and marching bands as well. The parade kicks off at 2:00 PM and it’s also filmed for a TV special that airs nationwide. Arriving early can help secure a good spot along Constitution Avenue from 7th to 17th Streets NW.
For all the details on how to join or watch, check out American Veterans Center.
National Memorial Day Concert
Monday, May 27 | 8PM
This event is a poignant evening filled with music and stories honoring the military service of Americans. Set against the backdrop of the U.S. Capitol on the West Lawn, this free concert features performances from various artists and orchestras, starting at 8:00 PM and typically ending around 9:30 PM. It’s advisable to arrive early for the best seating. The concert is also broadcast nationwide on local PBS networks.
Details and performers line-up can be found here: PBS National Memorial Day Concert.
Rolling to Remember
Friday, May 24 – Sunday, May 26
Originally known as Rolling Thunder, this motorcycle rally starts at the Pentagon before rolling through the streets of Washington, D.C. It aims to raise awareness of POW/MIA and veterans’ mental health issues. The ride starts at noon on Sunday, with a few events leading up to it in the days before.
For route and other specifics, check out their site: Rolling to Remember.
Memorial Day at President Lincoln’s Cottage
Monday, May 27 | 10AM
Join a meaningful guided tour at the US Soldiers’ and Airmen’s Home National Cemetery, a site frequently visited by Abraham Lincoln and the resting place of John Logan, who formalized Memorial Day. The cemetery was established in 1861, making it the first national cemetery. The tours highlight its history, notable burials, and the evolution of Memorial Day.
- Wreath Laying Ceremony at John Logan Mausoleum: Start your visit with a special wreath-laying by distinguished military veterans at 10:00 AM.
- Cemetery Tours: Free tours are offered at 10:45 AM and 12:30 PM, lasting about 30-45 minutes each.
More details can be found on President Lincoln’s Cottage website.
Flowers of Remembrance Day, Arlington National Cemetery
Sunday, May 26 | 8AM – 4:30PM
On this day, the public is invited to place flowers at the graves in Arlington National Cemetery. This touching tribute is a way to personally connect with the stories of those who served. The cemetery gates open at 8:00 AM and close at 5:00 PM. Flowers are provided: visitors should not bring their own.
For more details: Arlington Cemetery.
Note that there is a mandatory ID check at the gates of Arlington National Cemetery for all visitors over 16, as part of the cemetery’s standard security procedures.
Memorial Observances at Arlington National Cemetery
Monday, May 27
The day starts with a traditional wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, usually around 11:00 AM, which is televised but not open to the public. This is followed by a special public program in the Memorial Amphitheater, offering a deeply moving experience in remembrance of the fallen.
More information can be found at Arlington Cemetery.
Military Women’s Memorial Ceremony
Monday, May 27 3PM – 5PM
Commemorating the service of female veterans, this ceremony takes place at the Military Women’s Memorial at the gateway to Arlington National Cemetery. Starting around 9:00 AM, the event features speakers from various branches of the military and lasts about an hour. Free tickets are available.
More details at Military Women’s Memorial.
Memorial Day Weekend at the US Army Museum
Friday, May 24 – Monday, May 27
Spend your Memorial Day weekend exploring the rich history and contributions of the Army at the National Museum of the United States Army. Special exhibits and programs run from Saturday to Monday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM each day. This is a great way to learn more about military history in an engaging setting, with events for both kids and adults.
Tickets are required, but free: National Museum of the United States Army.
2024 National Memorial Day Choral Festival
Monday, May 27 | 2PM
Set at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., this festival brings together choirs from across the country to perform a series of patriotic songs in honor of America’s veterans and fallen heroes. The concert is free, but tickets are required and can be reserved in advance.
More information and how to secure your tickets can be found on the Kennedy Center’s website: Kennedy Center.
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Northern Virginia Memorial Weekend Events
Falls Church Memorial Day Parade and Festival
Monday, May 27 | 9AM – 5PM
This annual event is a staple for the community, starting with a parade at 9:00 AM. The parade features marching bands, civic organizations, and veterans’ groups. It’s followed by a festival with food, crafts, and activities, lasting until about 5:00 PM. The parade route goes through downtown Falls Church, ending at Cherry Hill Park.
Check out more details and tips for attending at Falls Church City website.
Memorial Day Ceremony, Leesburg
Monday, May 27 | 10AM
Held at the Loudoun County Courthouse in historic downtown Leesburg, this ceremony features keynote speakers, honor guards, and laying of wreaths to pay tribute to fallen soldiers. More details can be accessed here: Town of Leesburg.
Memorial Day Weekend at Manassas Battlefield Park
Monday, May 27
A day of remembrance at the site of two significant Civil War battles, with ranger-led tours and talks focusing on the history and personal stories from the Manassas battles. These events are an excellent opportunity for history enthusiasts to dive deeper into Civil War history. Event details from 2023 are at National Park Service – Manassas and should be updated soon for 2024.
Maryland Memorial Day Weekend Events
Gaithersburg Memorial Day Observance
Thursday, May 30
The city of Gaithersburg hosts its Memorial Day Observance at Christman Park, starting with a wreath-laying ceremony at 11:00 AM. This event focuses on community involvement and offers a chance to reflect on the contributions of military members past and present. It’s a more intimate gathering, ideal for those looking for a local, community-driven observance. You can find more details on the City of Gaithersburg website.
Rockville Memorial Day Ceremony and Parade
Monday, May 27
Rockville celebrates Memorial Day with a ceremony followed by a parade that includes bands, civic groups, and floats. The ceremony starts at 9:00 AM at Rockville Town Center, with the parade following at 10:30 AM. It’s a wonderful blend of solemn remembrance and community festivity, suitable for all ages. Additional information can be accessed on the City of Rockville website.
Bowie Memorial Day Parade
Saturday, May 25 | 10AM
The Bowie Memorial Day Parade begins at Bowie High School at 11:00 AM, proceeding along Annapolis Road. This event is known for its strong community turnout and features a range of local organizations and school groups. It’s a vibrant expression of local pride and remembrance. Details about the parade can be found on the City of Bowie website.
Annapolis Memorial Day Parade
Monday, May 27
Annapolis hosts a Memorial Day Parade that starts at Amos Garrett Blvd and travels down Main Street beginning at 10:00 AM. The parade features military units, bands, and community groups, set against the historic backdrop of downtown Annapolis. This event combines a festive atmosphere with a respectful homage to the military, making it a compelling way to spend the morning. For more information, visit the City of Annapolis website.
Fort McHenry National Monument
Saturday, May 25 and Sunday, May 26
Fort McHenry, famous for its pivotal role in the War of 1812 and as the birthplace of the U.S. national anthem, hosts special Memorial Day Weekend events. Visitors can expect flag-raising ceremonies, military reenactments, and patriotic concerts. The setting provides a deep connection to American history, making it a meaningful place for commemoration.
For more details on the event, you can visit National Park Service – Fort McHenry.
Baltimore Memorial Day Parade
The Baltimore Memorial Day Parade takes place downtown and features a range of participants including marching bands, veteran units, and service organizations. It starts in the morning along Charles Street, ending at the War Memorial Plaza, and is an excellent way to pay tribute to those who have served while enjoying community spirit. More information about the parade can be found on the Baltimore City Government website.
Dulaney Valley Memorial Gardens Annual Memorial Day Ceremony
Monday, May 27
This solemn event at Dulaney Valley Memorial Gardens includes traditional wreath-laying ceremonies, speeches by military officials, and tributes to Marylanders who have died in service over the past year. Set to begin at 10:00 AM on Memorial Day, this ceremony is a poignant reminder of sacrifice and service. More information at Dulaney Valley Memorial Gardens.
Memorials to Visit for Memorial Day Weekend
Washington D.C. has many moving tributes to American military history and veterans. Consider adding these or others to your Memorial Day Weekend plans.
World War II Memorial
Located on the National Mall between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument, the World War II Memorial honors the 16 million who served in the American armed forces during World War II, and the more than 400,000 who died.
The memorial features 56 granite pillars arranged in a semicircle around a plaza, which represent US states and territories. Two arches to represent the Atlantic and Pacific theaters. Central to the design is the Rainbow Pool with its fountains and water effects, which are especially beautiful at night.
Vietnam Veterans Memorial
The Vietnam Veterans Memorial is profound symbol of the nation’s respect for the men and women who served and sacrificed in one of America’s most controversial wars. Located northeast of the Lincoln Memorial, the memorial is marked by its long black granite walls inscribed with the names of over 58,000 servicemen and women who died in or were missing in action. The reflective surface encourages personal reflection and remembrance, making it a poignant visit for many.
Korean War Veterans Memorial
Situated near the Lincoln Memorial, the Korean War Veterans Memorial consists of 19 stainless steel statues depicting a squad on patrol, juxtaposed with a Wall of Remembrance. This wall is etched with the names of those who gave their lives or remain missing, along with scenes from the war etched into the reflective granite. This creates a haunting reminder of the conflict and the soldiers who fought under the motto “Freedom is not free.”
American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial
This memorial, close to the U.S. Capitol, honors the courage and sacrifices of those veterans who were permanently disabled during military service. The memorial’s design includes a star-shaped fountain surrounded by a grove of trees, with glass panels inscribed with narratives and images depicting the life stories of disabled veterans.
U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial (Iwo Jima Memorial)
Located in Arlington, Virginia, this iconic memorial is known for its depiction of the famous World War II scene of Marines raising the American flag at Iwo Jima. The memorial serves to honor all marines who have died in the defense of the United States since 1775. The powerful sculpture not only captures a moment of victory but also symbolizes the enduring spirit of the Marine Corps..
Women’s Military Memorial
The Women’s Military Memorial is dedicated to recognizing and honoring the military service of women. Located at the entrance to Arlington National Cemetery, this memorial features an education center and exhibits that showcase the contributions of women in the military through history. The memorial not only highlights their service but also educates the public about the roles women have played in the armed forces.
Ready for Memorial Day in Washington DC?
I hope this guide helps you find the perfect event to make your Memorial Day memorable and meaningful. Whether you choose to attend a solemn ceremony, enjoy a lively parade, or visit memorials, each option offers a unique way to observe this important day.
Here’s to a weekend of meaningful commemorations and community connections. Enjoy and stay safe!
