Honoring Heroes: Memorial Day Weekend Events Across California
Memorial Day weekend isn’t just the unofficial start of summer—it’s a time to pause, reflect, and honor the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. If you’re in California over the long weekend, you’ll find powerful tributes to our fallen heroes alongside music-filled festivals, family-friendly activities, and even a few ways to cool off.
Whether you want to stand among flags that whisper stories of sacrifice, tour historic ships, or just spend time with loved ones while acknowledging the meaning of the day, these are some of the most memorable ways to mark the holiday.
Newport Beach: Field of Honor
Castaway Park on Memorial Day. Photo credit: Kim Orlando
Where: Castaways Park The Exchange Club of Newport Beach installs a breathtaking display of 1,776 American flags, each representing a U.S. service member or first responder. I’ve visited the last two years, and it never fails to move me. Set against a coastal backdrop, it’s a solemn, stunning tribute worth witnessing.
Forest Lawn Tributes
Photo credit: Forest Lawn Cemetery
On Memorial Day, Forest Lawn cemeteries across Southern California will host free, family-friendly tributes to honor the lives and sacrifices of U.S. veterans. Expect patriotic music, wreath layings, flag ceremonies, heartfelt speeches, and sweet moments like coffee, crafts, and giveaways. The main event takes place at Forest Lawn–Hollywood Hills with keynote speaker Brigadier General Dr. David Smith and music by the LA Concert Band. Over in Glendale, a sea of flags will fill the Field of Honor, with sponsorships supporting local vets. Events begin Monday, May 26, at 10 AM across Cathedral City, Covina Hills, Cypress, Hollywood Hills, and Long Beach, with Glendale’s ceremony starting at 1 PM. Details at forestlawn.com/events/memorial-day.
⚓️ LA Fleet Week (May 21–26)
Where: Port of Los Angeles If you’ve never experienced LA Fleet Week, make this the year. Expect ship tours, military equipment demos, flyovers, and live music—plus appearances by Navy bands and a ton of family-friendly activities. It’s all free, and so are the shuttles and trolleys to and from parking areas.
🌺 Palm Springs Air Museum Flower Drop (May 26)
Photo credit: Palm Springs Air Museum
Each year, 3,000 red and white carnations are dropped from the Mitchell PBJ “Semper Fi”, the only one still flying. The sight is unforgettable. This patriotic ceremony also includes military reenactors, flight demos, and hands-on activities for kids.
🌊 Fiesta Hermosa (May 25–27)
Where: Hermosa Beach While not military-themed, Fiesta Hermosa is one of the largest beach parties in SoCal. With four stages of live music, local art, craft vendors, and oceanfront vibes, it’s a great way to round out your weekend—especially if you need a break after an emotional tribute.
🛞 San Diego’s USS Midway & Auto Museum
USS Midway Museum is throwing a Top Gun: Maverick party, complete with a DJ, food vendors, and photo ops with real aviators. A festive but meaningful nod to naval history.
Nearby, the San Diego Automotive Museum is hosting Motorcycles in the Park. Bring your bike or just admire the chrome. Donuts and coffee are free (while they last), and admission is just $10 before 10 a.m.
💦 Water Park Openings + Military Discounts
Soak City at Knott’s Berry Farm This Orange County favorite kicks off the season with a military discount. It’s a laid-back and affordable way to cool off with the family.
Hurricane Harbor at Six Flags Magic Mountain It’s the 30th anniversary of this water park, and every slide has been fully refurbished for the occasion. Military families get in free May 23–26, and can grab additional discounted tickets via ID.me.
🌼 Topanga Days (May 25–27)
If you’re looking for something truly SoCal, this three-day canyon celebration is it. Topanga Days features live music, local eats, art installations, and that quirky, bohemian charm the area is known for. Not explicitly patriotic, but it’s all about community—and that matters too.
Tip: Many of these events offer military discounts or free entry for service members. If that’s you or someone in your group, be sure to bring valid ID!
