Memorial Day is about remembering service members who gave their lives in defense of our country, and there are several parades and special events to honor their lives.
The holiday weekend also serves as the unofficial kick-off to summer. Whether it’s heading to a massive barbecue, hanging out at the beach, or taking a brunch cruise around Manhattan, there are plenty of memorable ways to spend your three-day weekend. If you want even more ideas, check out our best things to do in NYC this weekend guide.
RECOMMENDED: Full guide to Memorial Day in NYC
What to do in NYC on Memorial Day weekend?
There are a ton of activities in NYC for Memorial Day Weekend, from outdoor parties on rooftops and at parks to parades, tours of Naval ships and more. Read below for what's going on.
Is NYC busy on Memorial Day?
Between the parties and cookouts, NYC is pretty chill on Memorial Day unless you head to one of NYC's parades.
Where is the Memorial Day parade?
There are two parades, actually. Both are held on Memorial Day, Monday, May 26.
The Brooklyn Memorial Day Parade kicks off in Bay Ridge at 11am on Monday, May 26 from 78th Street and Third Avenue. The route contiunes along Third Avenue to Marine Avenue up Fourth Avenue and over to John Paul Jones Park.
The Little Neck Douglaston Memorial Day Parade steps off at 2pm on Monday, May 26 from Jayson Avenue and Northern Boulevard; here's a map of the route. Event organizers say it's the largest continuously-held Memorial Day parade in the nation.