Orange County Commemorates Memorial Day with Events

News Summary

This Memorial Day weekend, Orange County will honor fallen military heroes with various commemorative events across the region. From ceremonies to community festivals, families are encouraged to participate in activities that pay tribute to those who sacrificed their lives for the nation. Highlights include a Memorial Day ceremony at Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach, a Field of Honor at Mission San Juan Capistrano, and the Garden Grove Strawberry Festival. These events reflect the community’s commitment to remembering those who served.

Orange County is set to honor fallen heroes this Memorial Day weekend with a variety of events designed to remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the military. These commemorative activities take place across the region to ensure that the spirit of remembrance is alive within the community.

Memorial Day, a federal holiday observed on the last Monday in May, was originally known as “Decoration Day” when it began following the Civil War, as a day to decorate the graves of fallen soldiers. It was declared a federal holiday in 1971, and it is now a time for Americans to pay tribute to all military personnel who have died in active service.

Memorial Day Events in Orange County

Nixon Presidential Library and Museum, Yorba Linda

Located at 18001 Yorba Linda Blvd, the Nixon Presidential Library will offer free admission to active-duty military personnel and their families as part of the Blue Star Museums program, which runs through Labor Day, September 1, 2025. Current exhibitions at the library include “The Ancient World: Unlocking the Middle East,” showcasing over 300 original artifacts.

Field of Honor, Mission San Juan Capistrano

From May 20 to May 26, Mission San Juan Capistrano will display over 400 American flags to honor military personnel, veterans, and first responders. On Memorial Day, May 26, the Field of Honor will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with free admission granted to active-duty members, veterans, first responders, and Mission Preservation Society members.

Newport Beach Wine Festival, Balboa Bay Club

This festival will occur from May 23 to 25, featuring several events including a four-course dinner on May 23, a Grand Tasting on May 24, and a Veuve Clicquot Champagne Brunch on May 25. Tickets for this celebration of culinary delights are available at balboabayresort.com.

Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort

From May 23 to 25, visitors can enjoy an Inflatable Aquatic Park, live music concerts, and food trucks from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day at Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort.

Garden Grove Strawberry Festival

This fun-filled festival runs from May 23 to 26 and includes a strawberry shortcake cutting ceremony, a parade, live music, and carnival rides. Admission is free, making it a great family outing.

Hilton Irvine’s Memorial Weekend BBQ Party

On May 24, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., guests can enjoy barbecue foods, poolside dining, and family-friendly entertainment at this annual event.

Memorial Day Ceremony, Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach

This solemn ceremony, scheduled for May 26 at 11 a.m., will feature speeches and a “tolling the boats” ceremony that honors submarines lost during WWII.

Field of Honor, Castaways Park, Newport Beach

On May 26 at noon, this event will display 1,776 American flags and will feature retired Army and Navy Captain Nick Saifa as the keynote speaker.

Memorial Day Flag Raising Ceremony, Veterans Park, Fountain Valley

This ceremony takes place on May 26 at 10 a.m. to honor U.S. military personnel who have died while serving our country.

Memorial Day Ceremony, Pier Plaza and Amphitheater, Huntington Beach

Mark your calendars for May 26 at 11 a.m., where attendees can witness events such as a rifle salute and a performance of TAPS.

City of Mission Viejo Memorial Day

This ceremony on May 26 at 8:30 a.m. will include guest speakers, a color guard, and live performances to commemorate the day.

68th Annual Memorial Day Ceremony, Harbor Lawn-Mt. Olive Memorial Park

Scheduled for May 30 at 11 a.m., this ceremony will include military honors, speeches, and a wreath-laying ceremony, signifying an important moment of remembrance.

These events reflect a strong community commitment to remembering those who gave their lives in service. As families are invited to participate in these activities, they foster a deeper appreciation of the sacrifices made for the freedom and security enjoyed in the nation. Local media will continue to provide coverage of these significant gatherings leading up to Memorial Day, ensuring that the stories and memories of the fallen heroes are not forgotten.

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