Memorial Day Activities for 2025: How to Spend Your Long Weekend

Memorial Day weekend is just around the corner, and whether you're looking to honor our heroes or kick off summer with a bang, 2025’s long weekend offers plenty of ways to enjoy yourself and your loved ones. From local ceremonies and parades to outdoor adventures and staycation ideas, this guide has you covered with the best Memorial Day activities around Vancouver, Portland, and beyond.

Whether you're planning a family outing, a quiet day of reflection, or a road trip to explore the Pacific Northwest, this comprehensive guide will help you maximize your Memorial Day weekend with meaningful, fun, and memorable activities.

What Is Memorial Day Weekend All About?

Before diving into fun things to do, it's important to remember the true purpose of Memorial Day. This day honors the brave men and women who sacrificed their lives serving in the United States military. It’s a solemn occasion for reflection and gratitude, a chance to remember those who did not return home.

That said, Memorial Day weekend has also become a beloved time to celebrate with friends and family, welcoming the unofficial start of summer. With the long weekend, we get a rare chance to slow down, connect, and enjoy all that our region has to offer. Memorial Day falls on Monday, May 26th, making the weekend of May 24–26 your perfect 3-day adventure window. Let’s make it count.

2025 Memorial Day Remembrance Ceremony — Vancouver, WA

One of the most meaningful Memorial Day activities you can attend is the annual Memorial Day Remembrance Ceremony, hosted by the Community Military Appreciation Committee (CMAC). This year, it takes place:

• Date: Monday, May 26, 2025

• Time: 10:00 AM

• Location: Vancouver Barracks Parade Ground, 600 E Hatheway, Vancouver, WA 98661

• Cost: Free

This ceremony honors fallen heroes with a garrison flag raising, Mountain Howitzer cannon firing, and wreath laying. It’s a moving tribute supported by the City of Vancouver, National Park Service, Clark County, and more. Attendees can also enjoy a complimentary light lunch courtesy of local veteran organizations.

Parking is available nearby with shuttle service to the event, making it easy and accessible for families and community members. Speakers include local leaders like Superintendent Tracy Fortmann and Vancouver Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle.

Other Reflective Memorial Day Spots in Portland and Vancouver

• Vietnam Veterans of Oregon Memorial (Washington Park, Portland): A serene spot with symbolic trees planted to honor life and sacrifice. Perfect for quiet reflection.

• Battleship Oregon Memorial (Tom McCall Waterfront Park, Portland): Features the mast of the historic U.S.S. Oregon and commemorates those who fought in the Spanish-American War.

Memorial Day Weekend Events: Parades, Festivals, and Community Gatherings

The Memorial Day weekend is packed with events that both honor our veterans and celebrate community spirit.

Vancouver Memorial Day Weekend 2025

• Parades & Local Events: Vancouver hosts parades and community celebrations featuring live music, food vendors, and activities for all ages. From family-friendly fun to more adult-oriented gatherings like booze cruises, there’s something for everyone.

• Memorial Day Services Near You: Beyond the remembrance ceremony, check local listings for nearby services, wreath layings, and flag placements that welcome participation from all.

Portland’s Memorial Day Weekend Highlights

• Portland Rose Festival (Late May – Mid June): Beginning over Memorial Day weekend, this vibrant festival features over 60 events—parades, carnival rides, dragon boat races, art shows, and fun runs. It’s a city-wide celebration of summer and community spirit.

• Vanport Mosaic Festival: Honoring the history of Vanport City, destroyed by a flood on Memorial Day 1948, this festival features performances, screenings, exhibits, and community dialogues that preserve the city's silenced stories.

• Multnomah County Fair (Oaks Amusement Park): Family-friendly three-day fair showcasing gardening, crafts, car shows, and stage performances.

Stay Local: Memorial Day Activities in Vancouver & Portland

If you’re staying close to home, you’re in luck. The Portland-Vancouver metro area is bursting with Memorial Day weekend activities near me—no suitcase needed.

Vancouver & Portland Highlights:

• Vancouver Farmers Market (Sat & Sun): Browse fresh produce, local crafts, and live music in Esther Short Park.

• Portland Saturday Market: A long-standing riverside tradition packed with food carts, artists, and performances.

• Pearl District Gallery Walks: Many galleries host open houses and special Memorial Day installations.

• Veterans Memorial Ceremony: Fort Vancouver National Historic Site often hosts commemorative events—check their 2025 calendar.

For Families:

• Oregon Zoo (open all weekend)

• OMSI (hands-on science museum)

• Oaks Amusement Park (rides + old-school fun)

• Free storytime and kids' crafts at local libraries

For Seniors:

• Memorial concerts in local parks

• Easy-access gardens: Portland Japanese Garden or Esther Short Park rose garden

• Brunch at a riverfront restaurant

• Senior-focused museum tours at Pittock Mansion or Pearson Air Museum

Local Memorial Day activities don’t have to be big—sometimes a walk through your own neighborhood with an ice cream cone is all the reset you need.

Outdoor Memorial Day Activities: Get Outside and Explore the Pacific Northwest

For many, Memorial Day weekend activities mean getting outside to enjoy the beauty of spring and early summer. The region around Vancouver and Portland offers countless options for outdoor fun.

Top Campgrounds Near Portland & Vancouver:

Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a newbie, Memorial Day weekend is perfect for camping. Nearby campgrounds fill fast, so booking early is key.

• Beacon Rock State Park (WA): Easy trails, river views, quick drive.

• Battle Ground Lake State Park (WA): Close to home, but feels miles away.

• Oxbow Regional Park (OR): Forested, family-friendly, and along the Sandy River.

• Silver Falls State Park (OR): Waterfalls galore—book early!

• Cape Lookout (OR coast): Campsites and yurts right next to the ocean.

• Ainsworth State Park: Just under 2 hours from Vancouver, nestled along the Columbia River Gorge with stunning views and great hiking trails.

Tips:

• Don’t forget your Discover Pass (WA) or Oregon State Parks pass.

• Consider mid-sized campgrounds for more availability.

• Camping = one of the best activities for Memorial Day to bond with family, unplug, and refresh.

Short and Long Road Trips to Popular Destinations: Coastal Drives and Mountain Adventures

Got gas in the tank and a good playlist? Perfect. Memorial Day is a fantastic time to hit the road.

90-Min Drive Ideas:

• Cannon Beach: Haystack Rock + tidepools + chowder = always a win.

• Mt. Hood Loop: Just 90 minutes from Portland, Mount Hood offers hiking, waterfalls, and alpine meadows perfect for a nature-filled day trip.

• Columbia River Gorge: Take the Waterfall Corridor, ending at Hood River for food and kite-watching.

  

Long Weekend Getaways:

• Seattle, WA: Only about 3 hours north, Seattle's museums, Pike Place Market, and waterfront make for a lively weekend trip.

• Tri-Cities, WA: Just under 3 hours away, explore wine country, the Columbia River, and family-friendly museums.

• Spokane, WA: About 4.5 hours east, Spokane offers urban amenities combined with outdoor attractions like Riverfront Park and local wineries.

• Oregon Coast Loop: Around 90 minutes to 2 hours away, enjoy the beach towns of Cannon Beach, Seaside, or Newport with their unique shops, seafood, and ocean views.

These make great Memorial Day activities for adults or couples looking for a break from routine.

Flying Out of PDX? Here’s What to Know

If you’re planning to fly out of Portland International Airport (PDX) for a longer trip, expect heavier crowds and longer lines. PDX is well equipped, but plan ahead.

Memorial Day Weekend Travel Tips:

• Arrive at least 2.5 hours early, even for domestic flights.

• Pack snacks—lines for food will be long.

• Parking? Reserve in advance if you can, or take MAX Red Line.

• Carry-on only = peace of mind.

PDX gives you access to everywhere from San Diego to Chicago. But remember: Memorial Day activities are just as rich right here in Washington and Oregon.

Staycation Mode: Explore Like a Tourist in Your Own Town

Don’t feel like packing or planning? Go full staycation. Book a night at a downtown hotel or just commit to seeing your town with fresh eyes.

Local Staycation Ideas:

• Hotel + brunch + rooftop drinks = a full day

• Explore neighborhoods like Alberta Arts, Mississippi Ave, or Downtown Vancouver

• DIY brewery crawl or wine tasting day

• Book a spa appointment or float tank session

This is perfect for fun Memorial Day activities without the stress of travel—and ideal for seniors or families who want to stay comfortable but curious.

Creative Memorial Day Activities for All Ages

Feeling artsy or want to slow down? This weekend is a great excuse to make something or experience something beautiful.

Ideas for Kids & Preschoolers:

• Sidewalk chalk murals at home

• Paint-your-own pottery at a local studio

• Memorial Day coloring pages or DIY flag crafts

• Visit Vancouver Art Space for drop-in workshops

Memorial Day Art Activities for Everyone:

• Community art walks

• Live mural painting events (watch The Nudge for pop-ups!)

• Flower pressing hike + art project

• Attend a local play, poetry reading, or storytelling event

Special Events, Parades & Hidden Gems

While 2025 events are still being announced, you can expect:

• Fleet Week Ships (Portland Waterfront) — pending confirmation

• Multnomah County Fair — fun for kids, free admission

• Memorial Day Run/Walks — check local race calendars

• Memorial Ceremonies — often held at Willamette National Cemetery or Vancouver Barracks

Bookmark city event calendars or sign up for The Nudge text alerts for spontaneous plans delivered straight to your phone. (They do the planning so you don’t have to.)

For a curated list of the best Memorial Day activities and plans tailored for locals, check out The Nudge Text. They research top events, create easy-to-follow plans, and send you friendly text reminders (“Nudges”) about what’s happening nearby—making it super easy to find things to do during the long weekend without the hassle of endless searching.

Tips to Maximize Your Memorial Day Weekend

• Book early: Hotels, campsites, and rental gear go fast

• Leave early or late to avoid traffic

• Dress for anything: PNW spring is moody

• Picnic smarter: Bring a blanket, sunscreen, and reusable containers

• Take a moment to honor the day: A small gesture goes a long way

Final Thoughts: Make Your Memorial Day Weekend Count

Whether you're grilling in the backyard, camping in the Gorge, road-tripping to Seattle, or sipping rosé on your Portland patio, Memorial Day activities in the Pacific Northwest offer something for everyone.

The goal? Recharge, reconnect, and reflect.

This guide is just a launchpad. So plan a little—or a lot—and lean into the long weekend your way.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are people supposed to do on Memorial Day?

Memorial Day is a time to honor and remember U.S. military members who died in service. People often visit cemeteries, attend remembrance ceremonies, or participate in moments of silence. It's also a federal holiday marked by parades, flag displays, and family gatherings.

What is a traditional Memorial Day meal?

A traditional Memorial Day meal usually includes grilled foods like burgers, hot dogs, ribs, or chicken. Sides like potato salad, corn on the cob, baked beans, and watermelon are also popular. Many people treat it as the unofficial start of summer with a backyard BBQ.

What should you not do on Memorial Day?

Avoid saying “Happy Memorial Day,” as the holiday is one of remembrance, not celebration. It’s also considered disrespectful to ignore the meaning of the day or treat it only as a shopping or party weekend. Instead, take a moment to honor those who served and sacrificed.

What is the etiquette for Memorial Day?

Proper etiquette includes flying the American flag at half-staff until noon, then raising it to full-staff until sunset. Attending a local remembrance event or observing the National Moment of Remembrance at 3 PM local time is encouraged. Be mindful of the day’s solemn purpose when planning activities or sharing on social media.

What are the traditions of Memorial Day?

Common traditions include placing flags or flowers on graves of fallen soldiers, attending parades, and holding family cookouts. Many communities host ceremonies or military-themed events. The holiday has also become associated with the start of summer.

Why do people grill on Memorial Day?

Grilling has become a Memorial Day tradition as the holiday marks the unofficial beginning of summer. It’s a way for families and friends to gather and spend time outdoors. The mix of honoring fallen soldiers and enjoying American freedoms is part of the day’s cultural rhythm.

What are good sides for Memorial Day?

Classic sides include potato salad, coleslaw, baked beans, grilled corn, pasta salad, and watermelon. Chips and dip, deviled eggs, and fruit skewers also make great additions. Easy-to-make, crowd-friendly dishes are the go-to.

How do you respectfully honor Memorial Day?

You can honor Memorial Day by attending local memorial services, placing flags or flowers at veterans' graves, or donating to veteran-related causes. Observing a moment of silence or educating yourself and others about the holiday’s meaning are also respectful. Avoid turning the day into just a party or sales event.

What to say instead of Happy Memorial Day?

Say something more thoughtful, like “Wishing you a meaningful Memorial Day” or “Remembering and honoring those who served.” You could also say, “In gratitude for those who gave all.” The goal is to acknowledge the sacrifice with respect.

What is traditionally decorated on Memorial Day?

Gravesites of fallen soldiers are traditionally decorated with American flags, flowers, and wreaths. Public spaces like parks, cemeteries, and war memorials are also adorned with patriotic displays. Some people decorate their homes with red, white, and blue as a sign of respect.