Memorial Day weekend 2017 events in Phoenix

Memorial Day weekend is often considered the beginning of the summer season and Phoenix features plenty of events over the holiday weekend to enjoy. There are also plenty of more solemn events for commemorating those lost.

On Friday, the 26th, the Star Spangled Celebration in Laveen honors veterans, police, and firefighters who have died in the line of duty. The event features live music, info booths, police and fire demonstrations, and children’s activities. Any money made from the event will be given to non-profits.

There are also events that begin on Friday and continue through the rest of the weekend. The Phoenix Caribbean Carnival and Parade is a celebration of Caribbean culture that occurs in various Phoenix locations. The cornerstone of the event, “Carnival Village,” can be found at Third Street and Thomas Road on Sunday and features Caribbean entertainment, food, dance, arts, and crafts. The parade also occurs on Sunday.


On Memorial Day itself, there are many ceremonies for remembering service members who have sacrificed their lives in war for our country. At Pioneers’ Cemetery Association, there will be free parking for visitors who can tour the ceremonies and visit Smurthwaite House. In Fountain Hills, a commemorative ceremony will be held featuring speakers who are members of associations that honor veterans. Another ceremony can be found at Anthem Veterans Memorial introducing lieutenant colonels from the Army and Air Force.

For those in a lighter mood, the Arizona Academy of the Performing Arts will be holding a picnic lunch with hot dogs, beans, salads, and dessert. The Academy’s Youth Guard as well as Drum and Bugle Corps will perform there. One can also visit Lake Pleasant all weekend for some fun. The Pleasant Harbor Marina and RV Resort will play host to good times for all, putting on activities like daily boat cruises, dive-in movies, a sunset music cruise, and live entertainment.

All Memorial Weekend, events will be going on to both commemorate those lost and enjoy the holiday in Phoenix.