Memorial Day is on Monday, May 30 and was created to celebrate those in the United States military who have died while serving in the armed forces.
This year, several of Queens’ time-honored Memorial Day traditions are back, including four neighborhood parades and one concert.
The Little Neck-Douglaston Memorial Day Parade
For 95 years, this parade has honored those who died during service while also supporting veterans, active military and their families. Those who wish to participate should register at the parade’s website. Following the parade, there will be free refreshments including hot dogs, White Castle sliders and other treats.
When: Monday, May 30 at 2 p.m.
Parade route: Begins at Northern Boulevard from Jayson Avenue Great Neck and ends at 245th Street in Douglaston
Website: lndmemorialday.org
Admission: Free
College Point Memorial Day Parade
This annual tradition touts itself as “the longest-running parade in Queens” and honors men and women who died in the armed forces and those who are still alive today.
When: Sunday, May 29 at 2 p.m.
Parade route: College Point Boulevard from 28th Avenue to MacNeil Park
Website: facebook.com/CPmemorialdayparade/
Admission: Free
Forest Hills Memorial Day Weekend Parade
This annual tradition returns this year with the theme “Return to Service” to reaffirm American Legion Post 1424’s dedication to serve veterans and the local community. The parade begins with a ceremony in front of the Post Building.
When: Sunday, May 29; 11 a.m. ceremony, noon “step off”
Where: Meet at 10715 Metropolitan Ave., Forest Hills
Website: americanlegionpost1424.com/memorial-day
Admission: Free
Keeping the Flame Alive: A Festival of American Music
The Queens Symphony Orchestra, led by music director and conductor Martin Majkut, is putting on this special Memorial Day performance in Forest Park. The concert will feature “Lincoln Portrait” by Aaron Copland and tributes to Louis Armstrong and the armed forces. There will also be works by Sousa, Bernstein, Dvorak and more!
When: Sunday, May 29 at 4 p.m.
Where: George Seuffert Bandshell in Forest Park
Website: queenssymphony.org
Admission: Free
Ridgewood-Glendale Memorial Day Ceremony and Parade
The Allied Veterans Memorial Committee of Ridgewood and Glendale invite the public to the 84th Annual Memorial Day Parade. The celebration begins with an opening ceremony and ends with a closing ceremony.
When: Monday, May 30 at 11 a.m.
Parade route: Begins at Ridgewood on the corner of Cypress Avenue and Myrtle Avenue and marches up Myrtle Avenue toward Glendale
Website: facebook.com/ALpost104/
Admission: Free
