Memorial Day holds profound significance in New York City, as it does across the U.S. It is celebrated on May 27th and is marked with various events and traditions that honor the sacrifices of those who have died in service to their country.
While Memorial Day is primarily a day of remembrance, it also unofficially marks the beginning of summer. Many New Yorkers take advantage of the long weekend to enjoy outdoor activities, barbecues, gatherings with family and friends, and much more.
Here is our list of not-to-miss events for a memorable day.
BROOKLYN’S
MEMORIAL DAY PARADE
One of the longest-lasting Memorial Day parades in the country, Brooklyn’s 156th Memorial Day Parade will take place on May 27th at 11:00 am. The march, which honors all fallen soldiers, takes place from 78th Street and Third Avenue to 101st and Fourth Avenue. Post-parade, the U.S. Army leads a 21-gun salute at Fort Hamilton.
LITTLE NECK-DOUGLASTON MEMORIAL DAY PARADE
The Little Neck Douglaston Parade in Queens is not only the largest in New York but also the largest nationwide. Little Neck is the start, and Douglaston is the parade’s finish.
Other observances around the city include ceremonies at Manhattan’s Soldiers and Sailors on Memorial Day on Riverside Drive (89th Street), which begins at 10 am. Staten Island also holds a parade on Forest Avenue at 10 am. Lastly, the Bronx’s parade takes place on City Island.
FLEET WEEK
Though Fleet Week has only officially been celebrated since 1982, it has been a beloved spring activity in New York for many years before that. Each year, the United States Marine Corps, Navy, and Coast Guard host the week, which features active military ships and scheduled guided tours.
INTREPID MUSEUM
Permanently docked on the Hudon River, the Intrepid Museum is fascinating with its historic military and maritime exhibits. Start your exploration with the aircraft collection, a mesmerizing array that spans from the legendary Concorde to the sleek lines of supersonic spy planes. Enterprise, the world’s first space shuttle takes center stage--a must-see for any space enthusiast.
The museum experience, however, is about more than the incredible aircraft on view and the amazing technology behind it. While navigating the museum, keep an eye out for the stories woven into the exhibits. The tales of heroism, sacrifice, and dedication echo through the corridors, adding a profound layer to the technological wonders on display.
THE LADY IN THE HARBOR
Memorial Day is the perfect time of year to explore American History. One of the best places in New York City is the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island? You’ll find that many of the heroes who served in past conflicts are descendants of those who came through Ellis Island. Hop aboard a ferry that will deliver you Liberty Island and Ellis Island and a peek into U.S. history.
PICNIC IN CENTRAL PARK
Weather permitting Central Park is a beautiful place to spend an afternoon. While there, you have plenty to do: walking, biking, carriage rides, renting a rowboat, and grabbing a hot dog and pretzel, too. Or do as so many do and pack a picnic. There’s no shortage of space available to stake out your little corner of the park.
A DAY AT THE BEACH
A day trip to Coney Island is worthwhile. Not only is there a beach but loads of fun can be found at Luna Park. Both visitors and locals flock to this amusement park to enjoy the many attractions, most especially the Cyclone which reaches a maximum speed of 60 miles per hour, carries 24 passengers, and boasts a total track length of 2,640 feet. As the second-steepest wooden roller coaster in the world, the Cyclone features a plunge measuring 85 feet at an uncompromising descent angle of almost 60 degrees. After the thrills head over to Nathan’s Famous for the world’s most popular hot dog.