Memorial Day 2025: Honor fallen military heroes at South Florida ceremonies and parades
Memorial Day gives us a day off to honor and remember those who have died while serving the United States. For 54 years, it has been officially commemorated on the last Monday in May with ceremonies, parades and flag plantings in cemeteries.
Though for some the federal holiday, which falls on May 26 this year, also signals the unofficial start of summer, there's much more to know and value about Memorial Day — from its origins to time-honored traditions.
Here are five facts from The Memorial Day Foundation:
Memorial Day was first called Decoration Day to honor those who died preserving the Union in the Civil War. It was first observed on May 30, 1868, after Gen. John Logan, national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, officially made the proclamation earlier that month. The name comes from the act of decorating the graves of soldiers with flowers.
Memorial Day became a national holiday in June 1926 after a joint resolution by Congress that also was updated to honor all Americans who died fighting in wars.
Waterloo, New York, was officially declared the birthplace of Memorial Day by President Lyndon B. Johnson in May 1966.
Soldiers place small American flags at each gravestone at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia on the Thursday before Memorial Day. They patrol 24 hours a day during Memorial Day weekend to ensure that each flag remains standing.
For nearly 25 years, the National Moment of Remembrance has encouraged Americans to pause for a moment of silence at 3 p.m. local time on Memorial Day.
With cities and veterans' organizations throughout South Florida planning special events, here's a city-by-city roundup for Broward and Palm Beach counties. PLEASE NOTE: All events are scheduled for Monday, May 26.
COCONUT CREEK
The Parks and Recreation Department's Memorial Day Ceremony will be at 9 a.m. at Veterans Park, 3550 Lyons Road, and include city commissioners, dignitaries, guest speakers and the Coconut Creek Police Department Honor Guard. In the event of inclement weather, the ceremony will take place in the Recreation Complex, 4455 Sol Press Blvd. Free. Visit coconutcreek.net.
CORAL SPRINGS
In partnership with the Veterans Coalition of Coral Springs, the city has planned a Memorial Day Ceremony at 9 a.m. at Veterans Park, 8601 Royal Palm Blvd., featuring a Presentation of Colors, Wreath Placement by the Coral Springs Civil Air Patrol, Salute Volley, Honors by the Coral Springs Police Honor Guard, a keynote speaker and more. In case of weather issues, the ceremony will take place at the Coral Springs Gymnasium, 2501 Coral Springs Drive. Free. Visit coralsprings.gov.
DAVIE
The town and the Boy Scouts of America will put on the annual Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony starting at 10:30 a.m. The parade is set to begin just west of the Davie Fire Administration building, 6901 Orange Drive, then proceed east on Orange Drive to Southwest 65th Way, then north to the Bergeron Rodeo Grounds, 4201 Rodeo Way. The ceremony at 11 a.m. will include guest speakers, town dignitaries, Presentation of Colors, and Folding and Presentation of the Flag. Free. Visit davie-fl.gov.
DEERFIELD BEACH
The city and American Legion's Memorial Day Ceremony — scheduled for 9 a.m. at the Johnny L. Tigner Community Center, 445 SW Second St. — will 'honor and salute the brave men and women of the United States Armed Forces, particularly those who gave their lives in service to preserve our freedom,' according to the Deerfield Beach website. Free. Visit deerfield-beach.com.
FORT LAUDERDALE
A Memorial Day Ceremony at 9 a.m. will have remarks, Parade of Colors, veterans' recognition, memorial flowers placement, dove release and more at Lauderdale Memorial Park Cemetery, 2001 SW Fourth Ave. Music will be performed by the Fort Lauderdale Symphonic Winds, featuring James Perkowski. Free. Visit parks.fortlauderdale.gov.
The city and William C. Morris American Legion Post 36 will present a Memorial Day Ceremony at 11 a.m. at the Nininger Statue along the Riverwalk next to the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave. Other participants will include the Sons of American Legion Squad 36, Ladies Auxiliary Unit 36, Robert Bethel American Legion Post 220, 82nd Airborne Veterans and American Veterans for Equal Rights. Free parking will be available in the Broward Center garage. Free. Visit fortlauderdale.gov.
OAKLAND PARK
American Legion Post 222, along with the city, will have a Memorial Day Ceremony at its headquarters, 4250 NE Fifth Ave., from 11 a.m. to noon. Free. Visit oaklandparkfl.gov.
PARKLAND
A Memorial Day Ceremony will honor fallen heroes at 5:30 p.m. at the Parkland Recreation and Enrichment Center (P-REC) gymnasium, 10559 Trails End, with guest speakers, performances and a Presentation of the Wreath, followed by refreshments. Free. Visit cityofparkland.org/memorial.
PEMBROKE PINES
Presentations of Colors, speakers and a wreath placing will be part of the Memorial Day Ceremony at 9 a.m. Donnith Fletcher Park, 7900 Johnson St. View a live feed of the event via the city's Facebook or Instagram accounts. Free. Visit ppines.com.
PLANTATION
The city will have a Memorial Day Service from 9:30 to 11 a.m. at Veterans Park, 1776 Lauderdale W. Drive. Free. Visit plantation.org.
Want unlimited adventures at popular South Florida attractions? There are passes for that!
Save on fun all May long: MOSAIC has deals on things to do in Palm Beach County
Ten great things to do this summer in southeast Florida
South Florida water parks are open! What's new & how to save this season
POMPANO BEACH
The city's Parks & Recreation Department, in partnership with Public Works, has organized a Memorial Day Parade & Ceremony from 9 to 11 a.m. The parade will start at Wells Fargo Bank, 2401 E. Atlantic Blvd., then continue to the City of Pompano Beach Cemetery, 400 SE 23rd Ave. A ceremony will follow. Free. Visit pompanobeachfl.gov.
SUNRISE
A Memorial Day Ceremony will include a wreath placement, bagpipes, speakers, Piper High School's JROTC Presentation of Colors and more from 9 to 11 a.m. at Sunrise Civic Center Theatre, 10610 W. Oakland Park Blvd. Free. Visit sunrisefl.gov.
BOCA RATON
The city will have a Memorial Day Ceremony at 9 a.m. at the Boca Raton Cemetery and Mausoleum, 451 SW Fourth Ave., with flag folding, a wreath presentation and speakers. Limited seating will be provided. Free. Visit myboca.us/1470/Memorial-Day.
The Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 10556's annual Memorial Day Program will be at 9:30 a.m. at Veteran's Memorial Park, 9400 W. Palmetto Park Road. There will be a Procession of Colors, guest speakers and patriotic music. Visit discover.pbc.gov/parks.
DELRAY BEACH
The city's Memorial Day Ceremony is set for 10 a.m. at Delray Beach Memorial Gardens, 901 SW 10th St. Visit delraybeachfl.gov.
LAKE WORTH
The South Florida National Cemetery, 6501 S. State Road 7, will have its annual Memorial Day Ceremony at 10 am. Visit cem.va.gov/Memorial-Day.
LANTANA
The 20th annual 'A Day to Remember' Memorial Day Service will honor special operation forces at 11:50 a.m. at Palm Beach Memorial Park, 3691 N. Seacrest Blvd. There will be speakers, a wreath presentation, dove release, torpedo display, patriotic music and more. Free. Visit palmbeachmemorial.com.
PALM BEACH GARDENS
Flags will be presented by the Palm Beach Gardens Police and Fire-Rescue Honor Guard along with a wreath during a Memorial Day Ceremony starting at 9 a.m. at Veterans Plaza Amphitheater, 10500 N. Military Trail. Free. Visit pbgfl.gov.
ROYAL PALM BEACH
Start with a continental breakfast at 9 a.m. before the Memorial Day Ceremony at 9:30 a.m. at Veterans Park Amphitheater, 1036 Royal Palm Beach Blvd. Free. Visit royalpalmbeachfl.gov.
WELLINGTON
The village and American Legion Post 390 are planning a Memorial Day Parade & Ceremony, with all veterans invited to participate starting at 8:15 a.m. at Wellington's Village Hall, 12300 Forest Hill Blvd. The parade ends at the Veterans Memorial, on the corner of Forest Hill Boulevard and South Shore Boulevard, to be followed at 8:30 a.m. by a ceremony. Free. Visit wellingtonfl.gov.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Buzz Feed
11 hours ago
- Buzz Feed
The 22 Coziest Father's Day Gifts For Homebody Dads
Whether it be for Father's Day, a holiday or birthday gift, I am definitely among the many who find it difficult to shop for their dad. However, I find that things get easier when I try to hone in on meaningful gifts that he'll actually enjoy and that are representative of who he is as a person, as opposed to just grabbing a generic 'man gift.' And while whiskey stones and camping accessories are all well and good, not every dad is a big drinker or outdoor aficionado. So if you've got a gentle, indoor dad who appreciates creature comforts and little luxuries (like mine), then this Father's Day gift guide is for you. Below, I've rounded up the very best cozy and comforting Father's Day gifts for homebody dads, from weighted blankets and an e-reader for quiet nights in to a luxurious new leather wallet, classic slippers, a neck and shoulder massager and much more. Each one will help him lean into a bit of self-care and, most importantly, help him feel loved and appreciated. What could be better than that? A foot-hugging recovery slide Breathable and supportive, these sturdy slides have a gently firm orthotic insole that doesn't 'sink' the way other overly squishy recovery shoes tend to. They feature a rubber outsole that makes them the ideal indoor/outdoor shoe. Perfect for the dad who needs a little extra cushioning under his feet, they come in three different colors and men's sizes 7– them from Kuru for $99. 1861: The Lost Peace by Jay Winik If your dad loves to curl up with a good book, then he's going to love sinking his teeth into this account of the weeks leading up to the start of the war. This book is surprisingly gripping and gives readers a look at President Lincoln's mindset, the lengths he and his cabinet went to avoid war and introduces new readers to the many ways these leaders attempted to keep peace. Written by New York Times bestselling author Jay Winik, 1861: The Lost Peace is surprisingly timely and is sure to give even the most avid Civil War buffs new material to think it from Amazon for $32. A soft new sweatshirt to add to his collection Champion fleece sweatshirts remain some of the best in the game, and this timeless option is great for dad's more casual days. It's available in seven colors and sizes S to it from Amazon for $14.15+. A wildly soft blanket emblazoned with beloved family photos If your dad is a super cozy person who loves curling up with a blanket and a good book or show, you can't go wrong with this customized photo blanket. It displays eight different photos surrounding a personalized message and comes in a variety of materials like microfiber fleece, plush fleece or luxe fuzzy it from Shutterfly for $39.99+ (originally $79.98+; available in three sizes). A light-blocking sleep mask that won't put pressure on his eyes Manta's sleep masks are ultra-popular thanks to their multi-tasking ability to protect the wearer's sleep. The adjustable eye cups mold right to the contours of the user's face to block out all the light without putting uncomfy pressure on the eyes. They're made with a breathable cotton strap that won't snag, with subtle closures and elastics to keep it secure and it from Amazon for $39. A soft, luxurious and deliciously lightweight robe Parachute's Cloud cotton robe is the perfect example of an everyday basic made more special. It has a lovely, delicate texture that is as cozy and comforting as it is stylish. It's the kind of thing dad would never buy for himself but deserves. Time to replace the ratty one he's been using for years with one of these beauties. It's available in nine colors and sizes XS to 3X. Get it from Parachute for $103+ (originally $129). A pair of classic striped Adidas joggers You can't go wrong with these iconic striped Adidas sweats; they're great for lounging, running errands and more. They look crisp and stylish but couldn't be comfier. Get them in one of six colors in sizes XS to them from Adidas for $56+ (originally $70). A lovely cashmere sweater No dad can ever have too many cashmere sweaters, and this one from Quince has a sophisticated, timeless crewneck silhouette that he'll enjoy for many seasons to come. He'll love it come fall, or, if he runs cold like my dad, will probably put it to use much sooner. It's available in six colors in sizes S–XXL, made with Mongolian cashmere and is deliciously lightweight, soft and it from Quince for $59.90 (originally $138). A big water bottle with a unique straw/spout opening This popular stainless steel water bottle is ideal for using at home, in the car or on the go and an excellent way to help dad stay hydrated. It has a double-wall insulation that can keep drinks cold for up to 24 hours, a wide opening so he can clean it or add ice with ease and a base that will fit into most cupholders. It's available in four sizes and 21 it from Amazon for $24.99+. A pair of cushy cloud slippers If the mere thought of a soft, warm slipper is going to make your dad overheat, consider these plush, cushioned cloud slippers instead. They're wildly popular thanks to their comfortable shape and breathable material. They're lightweight, with a thick, shock-absorbing sole. I have a pair and they just couldn't be more comfortable. They're available in men's sizes 3–14 and 15 them from Amazon for $20.35+. A coffee subscription to Trade Coffee Trade Coffee's gift subscriptions make it easy for coffee devotees to try myriad different kinds of fresh craft coffee from the comfort of home. It's ideal for a coffee-loving dad who wants to travel the world via his morning cup of joe without leaving his favorite lounger. It's a very special way to discover new coffees from some of the best roasters it from Trade Coffee for $40+. A cool carafe for their desktop or bedside With three colors to pick from, this gorgeous Our Place carafe is as versatile as it is beautiful. It has a custom-designed filtering lid along with a cold brew infuser and a wine aerator. He won't know how he went this long without it from Our Place for $129. A pair of powerful binoculars Who doesn't love to sit in their yard and peep at the visiting birds? A pair of binoculars will enhance the experience tenfold. These have a wide field of view, 12 times magnification, adjustable eye cups that can be worn with eyeglasses and an easily adjustable focus. Get it from Amazon for $27.53. A heated Shiatsu back, neck and shoulder massager Everyone loves a little massage, even if they're not necessarily always achy. This massager has eight deep-tissue kneading modes and infrared heating that can ease muscle tension. It's made with mesh and faux leather that is breathable and easy to clean and has three adjustable speeds so your dad can customize his massage to his it from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in three colors). A chic new leather bifold wallet Chances are high that your dad has been rocking the same tattered wallet for decades, making a fancy new one a great gift idea. This black Saffiano leather bifold wallet from A.P.C. has four card slots, two note slots, a patch pocket and a flap coin compartment. It's simple and high-end all at it from Ssense for $239 (originally $265). An aerating spout for his special wines Wine aficionados know that this aerating spout is a must to truly get the most out of your wines. This spout in particular has a roomy aerating chamber and air intake system that infuses wine with just the right amount of oxygen and let it breathe. It has a tapered and ribbed rubber stopper that gives bottles a leak-free seal and a notched, slanted spout that won't drip all over the tablecloth. It can be easily taken apart and cleaned under running water. Pair this with a viewing of my new favorite show Drops of God and settle in for a perfect it from Amazon for $17.99. A chic turntable so he can enjoy his vinyl collection Help a music-loving Dad make use of old LPs with a portable turntable from Crosley. It's the perfect record player to reignite his passion for vinyl. It has Bluetooth connectivity so it can easily pair with speakers, plus adjustable pitch control, three speeds and its own full-range speaker it from Amazon for $68.95. A temp-controlled smart mug Perfect for the easily distracted dad, this temperature controlled mug keeps coffee and other hot drinks at exactly the right temp for as long as he needs. It has a long battery life and can be controlled via an app that can even send notifications. Get it from Amazon for $99.95. Indulge his love of coffee with a petite home espresso machine Upgrade your old man's morning coffee routine with this stunning espresso maker. The Breville Bambino is just what he needs to make lattes, espressos and cappuccinos. Just be warned, he'll never go back to drip coffee again once he's got this beauty in his repertoire. It's definitely pricey, but it's a great group gift from siblings or a splurge that he will enjoy for years to it from Amazon for $469.96+ (available in five colors). A perfectly nostalgic hot water bottle I find that hot water bottles are evocative of a time when you'd get tucked up in bed by your parents under handmade patchwork quilts that had been crafted with love. If your dad is of a certain age, there is a good chance he grew up using them. They're as aesthetically pleasing as they are comforting, cozy and deliciously toasty. There's a reason they've been around for hundreds of years in some iteration or another; they're a timeless way to warm yourself up. Take your pick of 10 cheerful colors with this popular hot water bottle. They're designed to hold heat for as long as possible, with a ribbed outer surface that helps maintain the inner liquid temperature while also protecting skin from it from Amazon for $9.99+. A Kindle Paperwhite e-reader If your pop is an avid reader, then a sleek, lightweight Kindle is perfect for his bookworm needs. It has an adjustable warm light, a wide display, thin border, up to 10 weeks of battery life and quick page turns. It's easy on the eyes and even waterproof. Plus, it can be paired with an Audible subscription and is it from Amazon for $149.99. Dyson Pure Cool fan This multipurpose fan and air purifier from Dyson is an absolute game-changer. I've had one for several years now and don't know how I ever managed without it. It eliminates pollutants while generating and projecting purified air into the room. The filter is easy to change, plus it removes odors and gases, has multiple strength levels and rotates. It's not cheap, but it's a really nice way to help your dad elevate the quality of the air in his home and feel comfortable at all times. Get it from Amazon for $296.95+ (available in two styles).
13 hours ago
By The Numbers: The origins of Pride Month
A look at the numbers behind the significance of the month of June for LGBTQ+ Americans.
Yahoo
14 hours ago
- Yahoo
What did Springfield look like 200 years ago in the month of June
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Springfield has been around since the early 1800s, and many significant events have occurred over the last 200 years. What did Springfield look like 200 years ago in the month of May Here's a timeline of significant events that have happened in the month of June since 1861: 1861 Col. Franz Siegel with his federal St. Louis German troops marched up St. Louis St. into the Public Square at 11:30 a.m.; then to First Christian Church on College St. The congregation was compelled to take an oath of allegiance to the Union cause. 1868 At the opening of National Cemetery, Sempronius H. Boyd and W.E. Gilman made speeches, and a mile-long procession formed in the city with 65 wagons, 20 carriages, 500 on horseback and 150 men on foot. The 800 newly-made graves were decorated with flowers from two large floats. 1870 Ozark House, a hotel built by South Pacific Railway Company, was opened on Commercial Street near the RR station. It burned in 1874; rebuilt in 1879. 1875 Springfield observed a day of fasting and prayer, proclaimed statewide by Gov. Charles H. Hardin, because of grasshopper destruction. Later the town had a benefit concert for victims of the grasshopper onslaught. 1894 Springfield Post Office opened in new Federal Building on Boonville Avenue at Brower Street with T.C. Love as postmaster. An extensive addition to building was completed in 1914. After Federal Building at Boonville and Central was occupied, July 5, 1938, former site became City Hall, with lots owned by city between the two sites being exchanged. The city originally had planned to build a city hall on these lots 1902 In talking about the introduction of ping pong here the News & Leader says: 'Springfield is a town always ready to follow a fad as soon as the mandate comes forth that society is interested in it as New York, Chicago, Washington or wherever the social centers from which it emanates can be located.' 1904 St. Paul Methodist Episcopal Church, South, now St. Paul United Methodist Church, was dedicated at Jefferson and East Walnut. It replaced a building at southwest corner of South and Walnut started in late 1850's. The congregation's first building in Springfield was in 1842 at Patton and Pershing. 1906 First session of Springfield State Normal School opened with enrollment of 543 at Cherry and Pickwick in a building that had been the privately owned Springfield Normal School, established in 1894 by J.A. Taylor and Frank P. Mayhugh. 1910 Aviator Charles F. Willard crashed in his Curtis biplane, falling 150 feet but escaping with slight injuries. 1911 Deed to Confederate Cemetery, combining with National, was signed by Harvey W. Salmon, president of State Confederate Association, and J.E. Elliott, secretary. 1913 Northeast corner of Public Square, including Heer's Store, burned; loss $800,000. 1914 Missouri Pythian Home formally opened. The massive gray stone structure became part of the facilities of O'Reilly Hospital during World War II and for a time a Pythian Home was maintained on South Campbell. The structure was the Army Reserve Center for a time and is now in private hands. 1916 The city's first automobile show was held in the new Holland Building. 1918 Headquarters of the Assemblies of God moved to Springfield from Hot Springs, Ark., where it had been organized in April, 1914. 1919 Last licensed saloon closed under Prohibition. An estimated $150,000 was spent for liquor that day. 1952 Thirty-fifth Division Reunion Parade was led by President Harry S. Truman. 1973 R.T. French Company dedicated a $12.7 million plant at 4455 East Mustard Way. 1992 Sherill Lewitt, Suzie Streeter and Stacy McCall disappeared from their homes. An intensive hunt took place but their whereabouts are still unknown. 2017 The Palace Theatre closes meanwhile, Alamo Drafthouse takes over the Campbell 16 Cine Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
