How to commemorate Memorial Day 2025 around the Historic Triangle

HISTORIC TRIANGLE – Memorial Day is upon us, and there are plenty of local opportunities to commemorate the lives and sacrifices of United States military service members.

Ceremonies, a memorial trail and free museum admission are set for Monday, May 26.

Memorial Mile | Waller Mill Park | Williamsburg | Embark upon a self-guided walk to honor and remember the sacrifice of fallen Fire, EMS, law enforcement and military members. The park is open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Memorial Day. Free.

Memorial Day Commemoration | Palace Green | The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation will honor the lives of men and women of the U.S. military who sacrificed their lives to defend our nation with a traditional wreath-laying ceremony. Free. 10 – 10:30 a.m. 

Annual Memorial Day Celebration | Williamsburg Memorial Park | This ceremony honors the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our nation, from members of the armed forces to police officers, firefighters, paramedics and first responders. Free. 10 a.m. 

Grace Church Memorial Day Ceremony | Grace Episcopal Church | Yorktown | Historic Grace Episcopal Church will host a prayer service followed by the playing of “Taps” to honor those who died serving our country in uniform. Free. 10 – 11 a.m. 

York County Memorial Day Ceremony | York Hall | York County’s Memorial Day ceremony will take place on the lawn of York Hall, weather permitting. The Fifes and Drums of Yorktown will perform prior to the start of the ceremony. The event will feature a Color Guard, wreath laying and keynote speech by Dr. Edward Boston of New Bethel Baptist Church in Yorktown. Free. 12 p.m. 

Memorial Day Ceremony | Newport News Victory Arch | This annual ceremony, sponsored by American Legion Braxton-Perkins Post 25, honors the men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. This year’s featured speaker in Col. Bob Killebrew, US Army (Ret). All are welcome. Free. 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. 

Memorial Day Free Admission | Virginia War Museum | The Virginia War Museum is offering free admission for all guests in honor of Memorial Day. Guests will explore the history of America’s military and honor the sacrifices of those who gave their lives for freedom. 9 a.m – 4 p.m. 

Free Military Admission | Colonial Williamsburg | All active duty Military, Reservists, Retirees, Veterans, National Guardsmen and their immediate dependents receive free admission at Colonial Williamsburg on Memorial Day, May 26. 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.