Memorial Day is important for all Americans: it’s when we honor the brave men and women who served in our armed forces. It also serves as the unofficial start of summer, when we can get together, kick back, and spend a long weekend in the sun. Here are a few ideas for spending the weekend in and around Anaheim this May!
A Time For Remembrance
Anaheim Cemetery Memorial Day Program | May 26
The most important part of Memorial Day lies in paying tribute to those who have served and fallen. There are various opportunities to participate in commemorative events; on Memorial Day itself, the Anaheim Cemetery will host an in-person Memorial Day Program in front of the Community Mausoleum starting at 11 am.
Beyond this specific event, Anaheim offers a year-round tribute at the Anaheim Veterans Monument, situated next to the Muzeo in downtown. Dedicated in 1999, this nine-foot-high monument, crafted by Anaheim artist Richard Turner, depicts all branches of the military from 20th-century wars.
Garden Grove Strawberry Festival | May 23-26
Celebrate Memorial Day with a slice of sweetness at the Garden Grove Strawberry Festival. Running from May 23th to 26th, this festival boasts one of the best parades in Orange County. Indulge in the iconic strawberry shortcake cutting ceremony on Friday at 6 p.m., and enjoy dozens of park rides suitable for all ages. From the Kite Flyer to the Zombie Carnival, there's endless entertainment for the whole family, plus admission is free!
Spend Time at Disneyland® Resort
Traditions like Memorial Day remind you of the importance of living life to the fullest and spending time with family. Go for the day of a lifetime at Anaheim’s world-famous Disneyland® Resort.
Enjoy the Great Outdoors
What better way to spend the long weekend than in the beautiful landscape our servicemen and women protect? If you're feeling adventurous, late May is prime time for water sports at Orange County’s beaches (after all, SoCal and beaches go together like PB&J). You might even spot some massive blue whales on a whale-watching tour from Dana Point or Newport Beach!
Beyond the beach, OC has tons of stunning parks and hiking trails. Crystal Cove State Park has breathtaking ocean views and tide pools to explore. For an easy hike, head up to Carbon Canyon Regional Park in Brea to see a grove of redwood trees.
Newport Beach Wine Festival | May 24-25
Remembrance is also a celebration of life, so why not raise a glass at the Newport Beach Wine Festival? Taking place over the Memorial Day weekend, this chic gathering will add an air of sophistication to your long weekend with wine and spritz tastings, champagne brunches, and live music.
Newport Dunes: Tunes at the Dunes | May 23-25
Kicking off Memorial Day weekend, Newport Dunes will host "Tunes at the Dunes," their annual spring celebration featuring live music, food, and more! Dive into their inflatable water park, enjoy watersport rentals, and groove to live performances each evening. Food trucks and full bars will be set up along the waters of the Upper Newport Back Bay. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own beach chairs and floats to fully enjoy this family-friendly event under the stars. This year’s musical lineup includes classic rock on the 24th and surf-reggae on the 25th, ensuring a lively atmosphere for all attendees.
Visit the Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
The Nixon Presidential Library and Museum is a great place to learn about our country's history and honor those who served our country. They have many exhibits and artifacts that highlight the bravery and sacrifice of our soldiers.
Visit Mission San Juan Capistrano
As part of Memorial Day activities at Mission San Juan Capistrano, Homefront America's 2025 Field of Honor will be held from Tuesday, May 20, through Monday, May 26, 2025. In honor of military, veterans, first responders, including K-9 and equestrian heroes, the mission's courtyard will be transformed with a field of American flags, each standing seven feet tall in solemn formation. Members of the Mission Preservation Society, active duty military personnel, veterans, and first responders will be offered free admission during the exhibit.
Visit Military Memorials & Monuments In Orange County, CA
As you explore the area, you are sure to find plenty of memorials and monuments honoring those who took the ultimate sacrifice for this country.
- Vietnam War Monument—14199 All American Way, Westminster, CA 92683
- Korean War Memorial—1321 N Brea Blvd., Fullerton, CA 92835
- Brea War Memorial—1 Civic Center Circle, Brea, CA 92821
- Marine War Memorial—700 Dover Drive, Newport Beach, CA 92660
- Yorba Linda Veterans Memorial—4766 Valley View Ave, Yorba Linda, CA 92886
- Veterans Memorial Park—Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point Harbor, CA 92629
- World War II Submarine Memorial—842-1010 Seal Beach Blvd, Seal Beach, CA 90740
- Northwood Gratitude & Honor Memorial—4531 Bryan Ave, Irvine, CA 92620
- Veterans Memorial at Depot Park—100 N Atchison St, Orange, CA 92866
- Patriot Point—Bluff Top Park, 2201 CA-1 (Pacific Coast Hwy), Huntington Beach, CA 92648
- Heroes Hall Museum – OC Fair & Event Center: 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Know Before You Go
To make the most of your Memorial Day weekend, keep these things in mind:
- Expect some traffic, especially on Friday and Monday of Memorial Day weekend.
- Book your accommodations and theme park tickets in advance, as it's a popular time to visit.
- Check the schedules for specific events you plan to attend and be aware of potential road closures, particularly for parades like the one at the Garden Grove Strawberry Festival.
For more events and activity ideas, check out our full listings.
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