Memorial Day Weekend in New York City is a meaningful moment to reflect and honor those who gave everything in service to our country. The energy in the city feels a little different this time of year. There’s patriotism in the air, flags on full display, and plenty of ways to both pay your respects and enjoy the long weekend.
Whether you're a local or visiting for the holiday, here’s your guide for how to spend Memorial Day Weekend 2025 in NYC.
When Is Memorial Day This Year?
This year, Memorial Day falls on Monday, May 26th, 2025. Get ready for a long weekend full of remembrance, celebration, and maybe even a little sun and sand.
NYC Memorial Day Parades
New York City has several parades happening across the boroughs, each featuring marching bands, veterans, and community pride. Here are a few of the big ones:
-
Staten Island Memorial Day Parade
đź•› Starts at 12:00 PM
đź“Ť Forest Ave & Hart Blvd -
Brooklyn’s Kings County Memorial Day Parade
đź•š Starts at 11:00 AM
đź“Ť 78th St & 3rd Ave -
Little Neck-Douglaston Memorial Day Parade (Queens)
đź•‘ Starts at 2:00 PM
đź“Ť Jayson Ave & Northern Blvd
Things to Do Over Memorial Day Weekend in NYC
There’s no shortage of ways to spend the holiday weekend in NYC. Check out some of our favorites:
Celebrate Fleet Week NYC
Fleet Week is back! This annual tradition brings in active-duty sailors, Marines, and Coast Guard members, and it's packed with public events. Think ship tours, live demonstrations, and a Parade of Ships sailing into the harbor. You’ll also find events and performances in places like Times Square and Pier 86. It’s a great way to connect with those who serve on Memorial Day Weekend.
Visit the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
If you’re downtown, don’t miss the chance to visit The Intrepid, NYC’s very own floating military museum. Located on the Hudson River, this historic aircraft carrier features exhibits, vintage aircraft, a submarine, and even a space shuttle. It’s family-friendly and a great way to tie history into the holiday.
Hit Up One of NYC’s Beaches
After a long NYC winter, we’re all ready for some sunshine. So, if the weather is looking good, grab your beach towel and get your toes in the sand at one of these beaches:
- Coney Island, Brooklyn
- Rockaway Beach, Queens
- Jones Beach, Long Island
- Long Beach, Long Island
- Orchard Beach, The Bronx
- Midland Beach, Staten Island
- Brighton Beach, Brooklyn
Reflect & Remember
At its core, Memorial Day is about honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice. So whether you’re standing at a parade, shaking hands with a sailor during Fleet Week, or simply taking a quiet moment to reflect, let the day's meaning stay front and center.
New York City is full of energy, but it’s also full of heart. And Memorial Day weekend is the perfect time to see both on display.
And don’t forget to mark your calendars for NYC’s Event Planner Expo happening this October. Event professionals will have an opportunity to network, learn, and collaborate with industry leaders and event services. Grab your tickets today!
