Memorial Day is more than just a long weekend; it is a time for Americans to come together in remembrance of the brave men and women who sacrificed their lives for our country. Across Florida, there are many Memorial Day events, as communities are hosting meaningful ceremonies, vibrant parades, and family-friendly activities to honor these fallen heroes. No matter what you are looking for, Florida is offering you a special way to spend the day on Monday, May 26, 2025. Here is our list of some of the top events happening statewide, so you can honor, explore, and celebrate together!
Top Memorial Day Events in Florida
Largo Memorial Day Ceremony
What: A color guard presentation, live music, wreath laying, and speeches by local veterans.
Where: Military Court of Honor, Largo Central Park
When: 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Cost: Free
75th Annual Memorial Day Remembrance Ceremony
What: Commemorative event unveiling a new Gold Star Families Memorial, honoring families of fallen service members.
Where: Woodlawn Memorial Park, 400 Woodlawn Cemetery Road, Gotha
When: 10:00 AM
Cost: Free
Ocala-Marion County Memorial Day Ceremony
What: Ceremonial tributes, including a wreath-laying ceremony, rifle salute, flyover, and performance by the Kingdom of the Sun Concert Band.
Where: Veterans Memorial Park, 2601 SE Fort King St., Ocala
When: 10:00 AM
Cost: Free
Apopka Memorial Day Service
What: Formal Ceremony honoring fallen military heroes, hosted by the City of Apopka and VFW Post 10147.
Where: Edgewood/Greenwood Cemetery, 141 South Edgewood Drive, Apopka
When: 11:00 AM
Cost: Free
Florida National Cemetery Memorial Day Ceremony
What: The ceremony includes flag presentation on horseback, wreath laying, patriotic music, rifle salute, and Echo Taps.
Where: Florida National Cemetery, Bushnell
When: 11:00 AM
Cost: Free
Explore
Kennedy Space Center Memorial Day Family Fun
What: Mini-golf, corn hole, music, and other activities in the Atlantis pavilion.
Where: Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
When: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Cost: Included with admission
Memorial Day Celebration at Decision Tactical
What: Family-friendly event with $2 hot dogs, a moment of silence at 6 p.m. to honor fallen soldiers, and BOGO simulated shooting experiences.
Where: 430 Towne Center Circle, Sanford, FL 32771
When: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Cost: Free entry
Petting Zoo of Ocala- Memorial Day Monday
What: Animal encounters and family-friendly activities.
Where: 11100 SW 16th Ave, Ocala
When: All Day
Cost: Free for active-duty and veterans; general admission otherwise
26 Degree Brewing Co. – Memorial Day Celebration Â
What: A community gathering featuring food specials, new beer releases, live rock music, cornhole games, giveaways, and a moment of silence to honor fallen heroes. Limited-edition Memorial Day stickers and prizes will be available while supplies last!
Where: 2600 E Atlantic Blvd, Pompano Beach, FL
When:Â Â 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Cost: Free admission.
Memorial Day Celebration at Armature Works
What: A community event featuring live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities, providing a festive atmosphere to honor the holiday.
Where: Armature Works, 1910 N Ola Ave, Tampa, FL
When: 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Cost: Free
Celebrate
Pompano Beach Memorial Day Parade & Ceremony
What: Parade followed by a remembrance ceremony honoring veterans.
Where: The parade starts at Wells Fargo ( 2401 E. Atlantic Blvd) and goes on to the Pompano Beach Ceremony
When: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Cost: Free
Palatka Memorial Day Parade & Ceremony
What: Parade and ceremony hosted by VFW Post 3349.
Where: Palatka Riverfront & St. Johns Ave
When: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Cost: Free
Cocoa Memorial Day Tribute
What: Parade, guest speakers, flag folding ceremony, and entertainment.
Where: Cocoa Riverfront Park
When: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Cost: Free
5th Annual Lake Helen Memorial Day Tribute Car Show
What: Open to all cars and trucks. DJ, military displays, food trucks, vendors, giveaways, awards, and a 50/50 raffle with the proceeds benefiting American Legion Post 127.
Where: Blake Park, 493 S Lakeview Dr, Lake Helen, FL 32744
When: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Cost: Free with no registration, parking, or spectator fees.
Jacksonville Memorial Day Observance
What: Pre-ceremony music presented by Navy Band Southeast and Voices of Jacksonville, followed by a formal ceremony.
Where: Jacksonville, FL
When: Pre-ceremony at 8:00 AM; Ceremony at The Veteran Memorial Wall at 8:30 AM
Cost: Free
Final Thoughts
As we remember and honor the courageous men and women who gave their lives for our freedom, Memorial Day also brings a chance to come together as communities and families. The diverse events across Florida on Monday, May 26th, invite you to reflect, explore, and celebrate in a variety of meaningful and memorable ways!
Do not forget that you can also get free admission into Florida state parks and trails, as well as Monday being the last day for free admission into the Florida Aquarium for Military members!
