Memorial Day Weekend in New York City is a vibrant blend of remembrance, celebration, and the unofficial start of summer. From honoring fallen heroes to enjoying the city's cultural offerings, there's something for everyone. Here's a curated guide to make the most of your long weekend in the Big Apple.
✨ Memorial Day Parades & Ceremonies
Brooklyn Memorial Day Parade
Celebrate one of the nation's oldest Memorial Day traditions in Bay Ridge. The 158th annual parade kicks off at 11 a.m. from 78th Street and Third Avenue, featuring veterans, NYPD, NYFD personnel, and Brooklyn high-school bands. The procession concludes with a memorial service at John Paul Jones Park, including bagpipes, a flag-raising ceremony, and a 21-gun salute.
Little Neck-Douglaston Memorial Day Parade
Queens hosts this quintessentially American hometown tradition, starting at 2 p.m. from Jayson Avenue and Northern Boulevard. The parade winds through the neighborhood, culminating in a ceremony at St. Anastasia’s Roman Catholic Church.
Fleet Week New York
Running from May 21–27, Fleet Week offers a weeklong celebration honoring the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. Highlights include ship tours, parades, and live entertainment performances throughout the city.
🎡 Iconic NYC Attractions
RiseNY
Experience New York City like never before at RiseNY! Travel back in time with a Jeff Goldblum-narrated documentary on Times Square, explore memorabilia and artifacts from NYC’s history in our interactive museum and soar 30ft over the New York skyline on our 4D immersive ride. Book tickets to the must-see tourist attraction in Times Square today!
Coney Island
Embrace the classic beachside vibe at Coney Island. Enjoy the thrills of Luna Park's rides, including the historic Cyclone roller coaster, indulge in a Nathan’s Famous hot dog, and relax on the sandy shores. The park is open until midnight on Memorial Day, offering plenty of time for fun.
Central Park
Stroll through Central Park's lush landscapes, rent a rowboat on the lake, or enjoy a picnic on the Great Lawn. The park often hosts outdoor concerts and performances during Memorial Day weekend, providing a serene escape in the heart of the city.
🎶 Cultural & Family-Friendly Events
Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
Kick off the weekend with a free screening of Top Gun: Maverick on the museum's flight deck on Friday, May 23. Throughout the weekend, enjoy various activities and performances, culminating in a special Memorial Day ceremony on Monday at 10 a.m.
Seaport District
Celebrate the start of summer at the Seaport with live music, global cuisine, and family-friendly activities. From May 24–27, enjoy outdoor markets, historic ship tours, and the opening of the Chase Sapphire Reserve Lounge.
Sky Bloom Floral Experience
Immerse yourself in a vibrant floral display featuring over 100,000 blooms, including hydrangeas, eucalyptus, and lavender. This immersive experience offers stunning views of the NYC skyline, perfect for a springtime outing.
🎉 Food & Festivities
Smorgasburg
Indulge in a culinary adventure at Smorgasburg, NYC's largest outdoor food market. Held in Williamsburg and Prospect Park, it offers a diverse range of cuisines from local vendors, including lobster rolls, ramen burgers, and vegan treats.
BBQs & Picnics
Many of NYC's parks, such as Prospect Park and Riverside Park, offer designated grilling areas. Bring your own grill or use the park's public grills to enjoy a classic Memorial Day barbecue with friends and family.
🌇 Memorial Day Weekend Itinerary Suggestions
Friday, May 23:
- Evening: Attend the free Top Gun: Maverick screening at the Intrepid Museum.
Saturday, May 24:
- Morning: Explore the Seaport District's outdoor markets and enjoy live music.
- Afternoon: Visit RiseNY for an immersive flying experience over NYC.
- Evening: Dine at a local restaurant and take a sunset stroll along the Brooklyn Bridge.
Sunday, May 25:
- Morning: Attend the Brooklyn Memorial Day Parade.
- Afternoon: Head to Coney Island for beach fun and amusement park rides.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at a seaside restaurant and watch the sunset.
Monday, May 26:
- Morning: Participate in a Memorial Day ceremony at John Paul Jones Park.
- Afternoon: Picnic in Central Park or take a boat ride on the lake.
Evening: Conclude the weekend with a leisurely dinner cruise around Manhattan.
Whether you're a local or visiting, Memorial Day Weekend in NYC offers a rich tapestry of events and experiences. From honoring heroes to enjoying the city's cultural delights, it's a time to reflect, celebrate, and create lasting memories.
