Memorial Day in New York City 2025: Best Parades and Memorial Services
Memorial Day in New York City is more than just the unofficial start to summer. It’s a moment when New Yorkers come together to honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for the nation. Across the five boroughs, the city marks the holiday with solemn ceremonies, historic parades, and moving memorial services. If you’re planning to be in the city this May, here’s your complete guide to the best ways to experience Memorial Day in NYC 2025.
Whether you are visiting for the first time or a lifelong New Yorker, participating in Memorial Day events is a powerful experience. Here’s your complete guide to memorial services, parades, and what to know for Memorial Day in New York City in 2025.
Your 2025 Guide to Memorial Day Parades, Services, and Traditions in NYC
Memorial Day Traditions in New York City
Across the five boroughs, New York City pays tribute to fallen soldiers through both solemn commemorations and vibrant community celebrations. It’s a day when the city slows down just a little, taking time to reflect and honor.
Memorial Day in NYC is marked by:
- Historic parades marching through neighborhood streets
- Public ceremonies at parks, monuments, and museums
- Wreath-laying ceremonies at memorials and veterans’ halls
- Cultural events blending patriotism with New York’s unique energy
The holiday brings together military personnel, veterans, local leaders, artists, musicians, and residents — all united in remembrance.
Top Memorial Day Parades in NYC for 2025
Little Neck–Douglaston Memorial Day Parade (Queens)
The Little Neck–Douglaston Memorial Day Parade is one of the biggest and most celebrated Memorial Day parades in the United States. Known for its strong community support and deep patriotism, the parade typically features marching bands, JROTC units, school groups, veterans, civic organizations, and more.
- Where: Northern Boulevard between Great Neck and Douglaston, Queens
- When: Memorial Day Monday, starting late morning
- Vibe: Traditional, family-friendly, deeply patriotic
- Fun Fact: This parade dates back to 1927 and draws thousands of spectators every year.
Local businesses and restaurants often offer specials along the route, making it a full day experience for families and visitors.
Brooklyn Memorial Day Parade (Bay Ridge)
The Brooklyn Memorial Day Parade is among the oldest continuous Memorial Day parades in America, with roots tracing back over 150 years. Held in Bay Ridge, this historic parade showcases veterans’ groups, school marching bands, fire departments, and community leaders.
The parade culminates in a moving ceremony at John Paul Jones Park, featuring a wreath-laying, a 21-gun salute, and the playing of taps to honor the fallen.
- Where: Starts at 78th Street and Third Avenue, Bay Ridge, Brooklyn
- When: Memorial Day Monday morning
- Vibe: Historic, solemn, community-driven
- Bonus: Spectators can enjoy beautiful waterfront views from Shore Road after the ceremony.
Special Memorial Services and Commemorations
Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum Memorial Day Commemoration
Few locations offer a more symbolic setting for Memorial Day ceremonies than the USS Intrepid, the iconic World War II aircraft carrier docked at Pier 86 on Manhattan’s west side. Each year, the Intrepid Museum hosts a Memorial Day ceremony that includes wreath-laying, military honors, and performances.
- Where: Intrepid Museum, Pier 86, 12th Avenue and 46th Street, Manhattan
- When: Memorial Day Monday, ceremony typically around 11:00 a.m.
- Admission: Ceremony free to attend; regular museum tickets needed for exhibitions afterward
- Experience: Standing aboard a ship that once served in the Pacific brings a deeper level of reflection.
Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument Memorial Service (Riverside Park)
Another moving tradition is the annual service at the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument in Riverside Park, located at 89th Street and Riverside Drive. This classic Beaux-Arts monument honors Union Army soldiers and sailors who served in the American Civil War. Each year, the service features readings, musical tributes, and ceremonial wreath-laying.
- Where: Riverside Park, Upper West Side, Manhattan
- When: Typically Sunday before Memorial Day
- Atmosphere: Intimate, peaceful, historically significant
Staten Island Memorial Day Parade (West Brighton)
Staten Island honors its veterans with its own traditional parade, typically centered around Forest Avenue in West Brighton. Marchers include veteran organizations, civic groups, local schools, and marching bands.
- Where: Forest Avenue, Staten Island
- When: Memorial Day Monday morning
- Vibe: Local pride, family-friendly, supportive
Bronx Memorial Day Parade (City Island)
City Island hosts a small but spirited Memorial Day Parade, celebrating its close-knit waterfront community. After the parade, many families enjoy waterfront dining at the island’s famous seafood restaurants.
- Vibe: Coastal community charm, relaxed and heartfelt
- Where: City Island Avenue, Bronx
- When: Memorial Day Monday afternoon
Many locals bring picnic blankets and spend the day enjoying Riverside Park after the service.
Other Memorial Day Weekend Activities
Fleet Week NYC
Although not exclusively on Memorial Day, Fleet Week overlaps with the holiday and offers amazing opportunities to celebrate the military. From ship tours to aviation displays, Fleet Week brings active Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard personnel to the city.
Expect events at the Intrepid Museum, Times Square, and throughout the waterfront neighborhoods.
- When: May 21–27, 2025
- Where: Multiple locations across Manhattan and Brooklyn
- Bonus: Many of the visiting sailors and marines participate in Memorial Day ceremonies.
Greenwood Cemetery Memorial Tributes (Brooklyn)
Historic Greenwood Cemetery often hosts special programming for Memorial Day weekend, including trolley tours focusing on notable veterans buried there. It’s a quieter but powerful way to honor the sacrifices of past generations.
- Where: Greenwood Cemetery, Brooklyn
- When: Memorial Day Weekend (check specific event listings)
Tips for Attending Memorial Day Events in NYC
Memorial Day in NYC 2025 is a powerful blend of remembrance, celebration, and community spirit. Whether you attend a parade in Queens, a waterfront ceremony in Manhattan, or a historic observance in Brooklyn, you’ll find countless ways to honor those who served. Take a moment this year to reflect, participate, and be part of New York City’s living tradition of gratitude.
Beyond the parades and ceremonies, Memorial Day also signals the beginning of summer adventures in the city. But first, it’s a day to pause, remember, and give thanks.
- Plan ahead: Major parades and ceremonies draw large crowds — arrive at least 30–45 minutes early.
- Dress appropriately: Late May can be warm, so lightweight clothing is smart. Comfortable shoes are essential.
- Use public transportation: Traffic is heavy, and parking is extremely limited near major events.
- Be respectful: Memorial Day is a solemn holiday. While celebrations are encouraged, remember to be respectful during moments of silence and official ceremonies.
- Bring essentials: Water, sunscreen, small flags (often sold by vendors), and portable seating for long parades.
- Check for updates: Confirm event times and locations online closer to Memorial Day — occasional changes happen due to weather or security.
This Memorial Day, take a few hours to stand by the parade route, salute passing veterans, attend a wreath-laying, or simply reflect under the blue skies of a New York May. It’s a powerful reminder of the sacrifice and strength that form the heart of the nation — and the spirit of the city itself.
More…