On Memorial Day there are several events in the Phoenix area where you can take some time to honor our country's fallen veterans. At the end of this list, you'll also find some Memorial Day Weekend special events that you might want to attend.
All dates, times, prices and offerings are subject to change without notice. Photo credit: Getty Images, unless otherwise indicated.
Surprise Memorial Day Parade and Pancake Breakfast
The City of Surprise, in partnership with the Surprise West Valley Veterans, present a Memorial Day Commemoration Event to honor those who have fallen. Event will include a pancake breakfast, guest speakers, color guard and a military vehicle display. Surprise Recreation Campus. Free. Pancake Breakfast starting at 6:30 a.m. is $3 per person. Program begins at 8:30 a.m. Call for information 623-222-2000.
In 2012: Saturday, May 26 at 8:30 a.m.
In 2012: Saturday, May 26 at 8:30 a.m.
2012 Memorial Day Ride and Concert
A ceremonial ride to honor fallen American heroes. Registration takes place at Buddy Stubbs Harley-Davidson Cave Creek, 13850 N. Cave Creek Rd. in Phoenix. The ride starts at 4:30 p.m. At 6:30 riders will meet at Loop 101 & Northern Ave. at the Park West Shopping Center. At 7 p.m. meet at Dillon's Restaurant for a concert featuring the band Western Bred and after party. This event benefits the Patriot Guard Riders, Arizona Chapter and American Legion Riders Legacy Fund. Event sponsors: Sanderson Ford, Sanderson Lincoln, Buddy Stubbs Harley-Davidson Cave Creek, Patriot Guard Riders, Mike Broomhead, 550 KFYI, The Logo Man, Law Tigers, Cyclerides.com, SQA, Dillion’s Restaurant, Shooter’s World, Republic Monetary Exchange, TruWest Credit Union, Walmart, MillerCoors and WIN Home Inspection.
In 2012: Sunday, May 27 starting at 2:30 p.m.
In 2012: Sunday, May 27 starting at 2:30 p.m.
Memorial Day Observance
The Pioneers’ Cemetery Association will be honoring those who have died in the service of their country at a ceremony at the Pioneer & Military Memorial Park at 14th Avenue and Jefferson Street in downtown Phoenix. The keynote speaker will be Don Shields, a historical reenactor renowned for his portrayal of Arizona's first governor, George W. P. Hunt. Patrick Grady, author of the book "Out of the Ruins: Pioneer Life in Frontier Phoenix, Arizona Territory 1867-1881", will be the guest speaker. Parking is available at Wesley Bolin Plaza. For more information call 602-534-1262 or visit Pioneers’ Cemetery Association online.
In 2012: Monday, May 28 at 9 a.m.
In 2012: Monday, May 28 at 9 a.m.
Avondale Sunset Memorial Day Service
The City of Avondale, American Legion Crandall Palmer Post 61, VFW Pat Tillman Memorial Post 40, Scottish American Military Society, and the Blue Star Moms of the Southwest Valley present a program to commemorate the lives of those who perished while serving our great nation. The program will feature posting of the Colors, TAPS, a solemn POW/MIA table ceremony, and a candle lighting remembrance. A wreath will be on display to honor the memory of fallen members of the Armed Forces on the flag-lined path featuring bricks engraved with names of veterans and flags representing each of the six branches of the Military. Avondale Civic Center, 11465 W. Civic Center Drive at the outdoor amphitheater. Call 623-333-2400 for more information. Free.
In 2012: Monday, May 28 from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.
In 2012: Monday, May 28 from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Memorial Day Celebration
The Arizona Academy of the Performing Arts hosts the Memorial Day Celebration at the Pera Club, 1 E. Continental Dr., Tempe. This annual event celebrates Marching Music through this family-style barbeque that features entertainment, raffles, and food. The Academy Drum and Bugle Corps will debut their 2012 musical production "Left of Spring." Tickets online or at the door.
In 2012: Monday, May 28 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
In 2012: Monday, May 28 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Memorial Day Bike Rally
Riders USA pays tribute to our fallen at Phoenix National Memorial Cemetery, 23029 N. Cave Creek Road, Phoenix. Over 150 American Flags and 150 Motorcycles paying tribute in 'Flags for Our Fallen'. The flag display and salute along with the official Ceremony are free. For $10 donation you can sponsor a flag. Register online.
In 2012: Monday, May 28 from 6:30 a.m. to 8 a.m.
In 2012: Monday, May 28 from 6:30 a.m. to 8 a.m.
Not So Much About Honoring our Fallen, But Fun Nonetheless
© Judy Hedding
As the kick-off to the summer season, there's plenty to do on Memorial Day Weekend. After you have paid your respects to our country's fallen soldiers, you might want to check out these activities!
- Friday, May 25 and Saturday May 26: Phoenix Memorial Weekend Comedy Show at JesterZ Improv
- Friday, May 25; Saturday May 26; Monday, May 27: Phoenix Symphony, To Kill a Mockingbird, Sugarland Concert
- Saturday, May 26: Hollywood & Wine at Arizona Biltmore
- Saturday, May 26 and Sunday, May 27: Memorial Day Weekend Fireworks Show & BBQ at Wet 'n' Wild
- Saturday, May 26; Sunday, May 27; Monday, May 28: Salt River Heroes = Litter Zero Memorial Day Celebration at Salt River Tubing
- Monday, May 28: Memorial Day Feast at Cafe 24/7, Wild Horse Pass Casino
- Sunday, May 27: Bark in the Park at the Arizona Diamondbacks
Leaving Town? Sky Harbor Travel Tips for Holiday Weekends
© Judy Hedding
Three-day weekends are always a great opportunity to travel to other cities to visit friends, family or just relax. They are also busy days at the airport, so here are some things to consider when planning your trip to the airport.
If you'll be parking at the airport, you can download a parking coupon for 40% off terminal garage parking valid May 24-31, 2012.
If you'll be parking at the airport, you can download a parking coupon for 40% off terminal garage parking valid May 24-31, 2012.
