As the vibrant colors of spring begin to bloom and the temperature rises, the arrival of Memorial Day marks a significant moment in our calendar. Beyond the barbecues, beach trips, and the unofficial start of summer, it’s essential to reflect on the true essence of this day. Memorial Day, observed on the last Monday in May, stands as a solemn occasion for us to remember and honor the courageous men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the armed forces.
Whether you’re seeking a deeper understanding of its history, looking for ways to participate in local ceremonies, or simply searching for thoughtful ways to honor fallen heroes, we have compiled a local guide to creating a meaningful Memorial Day experience on the First Coast.
From cultural festivals and live performances to sports events and community celebrations, there’s something for everyone to anticipate. Here are a handful of events happening in Northeast Florida this Memorial Day.
Jacksonville Jazz Festival
May 25-28 (4pm-11pm) Downtown Jacksonville
The Jacksonville Jazz Festival is an annual music event that’s been held in Jacksonville for over 40 years! Celebrating the rich history and vibrant spirit of jazz music, the festival showcases a diverse lineup of local, national, and international jazz artists, offering a wide range of performances and styles, from traditional to contemporary. The festival offers a mix of free and ticketed events. The Jazz Festival brings music lovers together to enjoy an incredible weekend of food, drinks, community, and of course music! Festival lineup listed in the link below.
Brain Jacuzzi- Night of Music & Art
May 27 (8pm-1am) @ T-Dubs Mercantile
Step into a world of immersive art and music at our upcoming gallery showcase: Brain Jacuzzi, presented by TheOhWellKid and Keeka the Brave! With visual artist Jerrod Labrie as the creative force behind the visual aesthetic of Keeka the Brave, you can expect a truly breathtaking experience. Jerrod (TheOhWellKid), will be showcasing a collection of illuminated art pieces, crafted using a variety of unique mediums. The result is a mesmerizing display of color, light, and texture that will transport you to another world. And with a live band performance from the ambient lo-fi band Keeka the Brave, the atmosphere will be nothing short of magical.
Jumbo Shrimp Holiday Game & Fireworks Show
May 28 (6:05pm) 121 Financial Ballpark
Baptist Health Sunday Family FUNday. Join us as we host a 20 minute, pre-game, catch on the field. Head out to the centerfield gate where we will host catch on the field until 20 minutes after the gates have opened. Kids can also feel like the pros after each Sunday game by running the bases once the field is clear. Plus each Sunday will feature complementary, PRE-GAME, face painting and balloon animals! | Presented By Baptist Health. Be sure to stick around after the game for special Sunday holiday fireworks!! Get your tickets in the link below!
https://www.milb.com/jacksonville/tickets/promotions
Green Cove Springs Memorial Day Riverfest
May 29 (10am-9pm) Spring Park
Green Cove Springs Riverfest is held on Memorial Day! There are an average of 100 food and craft vendors, a kid’s zone that includes pony rides, bounce slides, face painting, live entertainment throughout the day, and fireworks at night. The highlight is the memorial and veterans recognition ceremony to kickoff the day, which includes a flyover by Dreamland Squadron, and displays of military vehicles and memorabilia by MVPA. How awesome it is to see men and women, both young and old come forward to share their time in service!
https://www.greencovesprings.com/290/Green-Cove-Springs-Riverfest
Memorial Day Concert @ Historic Riverside’s Memorial Park
May 29 (6:30pm) Memorial Park
In collaboration with the City of Jacksonville, join Memorial Park Association for our annual Memorial Day Concert & Picnic. Featuring a live performance from the Navy Band Southeast, this event is fun for the whole family. Local restaurants will be tabled at the park for food purchases, stilt walker and face painter for the kids, and a professional photographer for photos.
https://memparkjax.org/event/memorial-day-2022-concert-in-the-park/
We’re calling on you to do something special this year for Memorial Day!
Here are 10 ways to honor America’s Fallen Soldiers:
https://momsforamerica.us/blog/memorial-day-10-ways-to-bring-honor-back-to-americas-fallen-heroes/?gclid=CjwKCAjw04yjBhApEiwAJcvNoS0G2OyduO0TaWYeGVuCYtMYFLDQ-zLZpc95iTltPzSktRRCdKmoSBoCrUwQAvD_BwE