Memorial Day in New York City is more than just the unofficial start of summer; it’s a time to honor those who served while enjoying meaningful moments with family and friends. From parades and remembrance ceremonies to picnics, concerts, and waterfront activities, NYC offers a full slate of Memorial Day events for every interest and borough.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, here’s how to make the most of Memorial Day 2025 in the city that never sleeps.
Memorial Day Parades in NYC
Parades are a longstanding tradition in New York City’s Memorial Day celebrations. Expect vibrant processions, marching bands, veterans’ groups, and community pride across all five boroughs.
- Brooklyn Memorial Day Parade: One of the oldest in the country, this parade takes place in Bay Ridge and draws thousands in honor of fallen heroes. More info here.
- Little Neck–Douglaston Memorial Day Parade (Queens): This is NYC’s largest Memorial Day parade, featuring military vehicles, service members, local groups, and school bands.
- Staten Island Memorial Day Parade: Usually held in West Brighton or Graniteville, this borough’s observance is both heartfelt and family-friendly.
- Bronx & Manhattan Memorial Services: Smaller parades and ceremonies typically take place near Veterans Memorials, with additional services at Riverside Park and Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument.
📍 For full parade listings and times, check the NYC Department of Veterans’ Services or your local community board.
Memorial Day Events in NYC
Memorial Day weekend still offers concerts, outdoor movie nights, and summer kick-off events in public parks.
Popular 2025 options include:
- Fleet Week NYC Events: Running through Memorial Day weekend, Fleet Week includes ship tours, aviation demos, and a U.S. Navy band concert.
- Hudson River Park Events: Family-friendly outdoor programming like fitness classes, live music, and riverfront pop-ups make this a go-to for locals.
- Governors Island: A great Memorial Day escape with biking, hammocks, historic sites, and open space for picnics.
- Green-Wood’s Memorial Day Concert: Returns for its 26th year in 2025. Held on the scenic grounds of this historic landmark, the free outdoor concert features the New York City Symphonic Band, honoring veterans with patriotic and classical music.
Want updates on NYC holiday events all summer long? Follow us for weekly event guides and neighborhood spotlights across the five boroughs!
Family-Friendly Memorial Day Activities in NYC
For those with kids in tow, Memorial Day weekend in NYC offers plenty of family-friendly things to do. Spend the day in a museum with military exhibits (like the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum), or check out one of the city’s many outdoor pools and splash pads as they begin to reopen for the season.
NYC parks also host free barbecue zones, playground festivals, and seasonal markets, making it easy to fill your day with affordable fun.
Honor, Celebrate, and Explore NYC This Memorial Day
Memorial Day is a chance to reflect, reconnect, and explore everything that makes NYC special. Whether you’re attending a parade, enjoying a picnic in Central Park, or learning something new at a local museum, there’s no shortage of meaningful ways to spend the weekend.
Follow us for your ultimate NYC summer guide—featuring parades, parks, fireworks, and everything in between!
For more information about DOME Property Management, visit DOMEgroup.com or drop us a line in properties@DOMEproperty.com