Memorial Day is a day of remembrance for those who have died serving our country. This is a great time to honor our veterans and famous Americans by visiting the monuments in Washington, DC. The Memorial Day weekend also marks the beginning of the busy summer season and the Washington, DC region celebrates with family friendly events and special services. Here is the 2008 Memorial Day event schedule:
PBS' National Memorial Day Concert
Sunday, May 25, 2008, 8 p.m.
PBS sponsors a FREE concert on the West Lawn of the U. S. Capitol. The concert features actors Joe Mantegna, Gary Sinise, and Charles Durning, and other guest artists (to be announced), along with conductor Erich Kunzel and the National Symphony Orchestra.See Photos of the performers in the 2007 concert. Photos for 2008 will be posted when available.
National Memorial Day Parade
Monday, May 26, 2008, beginning at 2 p.m.
The parade of Marching Bands and Veterans units from all 50 states, will begin at 5th and Constitution Avenue. The Parade is sponsored by the World War II Veterans Committee and includes patriotic floats and helium-filled balloons. See Photos of the National Memorial Day Parade in Washington, DC.
Rolling Thunder Motorcycle Rally
Sunday, May 25, 2008. Departure from the Pentagon at 12 p.m. Speaker Program and Musical Tribute 1:30 p.m. at the Reflecting Pool across from The Lincoln Memorial. Thousands of motorcycles ride through Washington in an annual demonstration seeking to improve veteran benefits and resolve POW/MIA issues. See Photos of Rolling Thunder
GI Film Festival
May 14-18, 2008. In its 2nd year, the festival will be held prior to Memorial Day weekend. See classic and premier films celebrating the heroic stories of the American Armed Forces including a variety of films presented by award-winning Hollywood actors and directors. Participate in panel discussions with soldiers, journalists, authors, and filmmakers.
Arlington National Cemetery
Monday, May 26, 2008, 11 a.m.
A wreath-laying ceremony and concert will be held at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in honor of Memorial Day.See Photos of Arlington National Cemetery.
Navy Memorial
Saturday, May 24, 2008. 11 a.m. Rolling Thunder visits the Navy Memorial and holds a wreath-laying ceremony.
Monday, May 26, 2008, 11:00 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. wreath-laying ceremonies; 12:30 p.m. Navy Band concert; 2:00 p.m. Film screening of a PBS documentary about the last reunion of Air Group 16 at the dedication of the WWII Memorial.
Vietnam Veterans Memorial
Monday, May 26, 2008, 1:00 p.m.
This year's annual Memorial Day ceremony includes Presentation of the Colors, remarks by a special guest and wreath-laying service.
Hometown Holidays
May 24-26, 2008.
The city of Rockville’s Memorial Day event is a three-day street festival with live music, children's entertainment, a parade and more.
Wolf Trap Farm Park
Sunday, May 25, 2008, 8:00 p.m.
The park for performing arts kicks off the summer season with a free performance by the U.S. Marine Band followed by fireworks.
Fort Ward Park, Alexandria, Virginia
Monday, May 26, 2008, 1-7 p.m. The annual Memorial Day Jazz Festival features big band, swing, and contemporary jazz music. Picnics are allowed and food and beverages will also be for sale.
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