Entertainment
Metro Phoenix Memorial Day Ceremonies and Observances Draw Commemorative Crowds
As Memorial Day approaches, metro Phoenix gears up for a series of ceremonies and observances to honor fallen soldiers who served the country with bravery and dedication.
This year, Memorial Day, established to pay tribute to military members who made the ultimate sacrifice, falls on May 27, 2024. Cities like Phoenix, Gilbert, Avondale, and Prescott are set to hold various events to commemorate this day.
The Avondale Parks and Recreation Department will lead a Memorial Day ceremony featuring exhibitions, musical tributes, and a flag ceremony at the Civic Center Amphitheater, inviting the community to join in solemn remembrance.
At the Heard Museum in Phoenix, visitors can participate in a Memorial Day event exploring the American Indian Veterans National Memorial. Live music, film screenings, family activities, and displays by veteran artists at the Steele Auditorium enhance the experience.
The Gilbert Historical Museum plans a Memorial Day ceremony at the Gilbert Civic Center, including flag placements and remarks from local dignitaries like Mayor Brigette Peterson. The museum will also be open to the public for free during specific hours.
Community members can pay their respects by joining in the flag-placing at the VA National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona in Phoenix on May 25 and attending a special Memorial Day program at the cemetery on May 27. Both events offer opportunities to honor and remember the fallen.
For those heading out of town, the Prescott Veterans Administration will host a Memorial Day Remembrance Ceremony at the Prescott National Cemetery. Guest speakers and a wreath-laying ceremony will be part of the proceedings, with shuttle service available from Yavapai College for attendees.
As Memorial Day draws near, these events serve as poignant reminders of the sacrifices made by military personnel. Meredith G. White, entertainment reporter for The Arizona Republic, provides coverage and details on each commemorative event.