Memorial Day, a federally established holiday, invites Americans to honor the dedication of military service members who lost their lives defending the United States. Central Florida hosts a series of events to recognize their sacrifices.
Flagler County Memorial Day Events
Memorial Day Service
Date: May 27, 10 a.m.
Location: Government Services Building, Bunnell
The Flagler County Board of County Commissioners and the Flagler County Veterans Advisory Council present their annual service, featuring Retired USMC Col. Mark Thieme, appointed in 2023 by Governor Ron DeSantis as executive director of the Florida State Guard. Army Cpl. Owen Niel Garnet, who died in Bien Hoa on January 31, 1968, will be honored.
Palm Coast Memorial Day Ceremony
Date: May 27, 8 a.m.
Location: Heroes Memorial Park
Mayor David Alfin will highlight Memorial Day’s significance. The event includes ceremonial duties by the Palm Coast Fire Department Honor Guard, Matanzas High School Junior ROTC, and Marine Corps League Detachment 876. The Community Chorus of Palm Coast will perform patriotic songs. Special recognition will be given to Palm Coast Gold Star Families and other families of fallen soldiers.
Lake County Memorial Day Events
Memorial Day Tribute
Date: May 27, 10 a.m.
Location: Lakeside Memory Gardens, Eustis
U.S. Rep. Michael Waltz (R-Fla.) will be the special guest speaker. The event features a wreath-laying ceremony, Umatilla High School Junior ROTC, a presentation of the colors, and a flag-folding ceremony.
Orange County Memorial Day Events
SeaWorld Orlando Ticket Discount
Date: Now-May 27
Location: SeaWorld Orlando
Veterans and active military members can enjoy up to 50% off on tickets, Fun Cards, and passes for Memorial Day, coinciding with SeaWorld’s 60th Anniversary Celebration. The celebration includes the return of “Shamu & Crew,” new shows, parades, and attractions.
Memorial Day 2024 at OVAHCS
Date: May 24, 11 a.m.
Location: Orlando VA Medical Center, Lake Nona
The Orlando VA Healthcare System, in collaboration with the Central Florida Veterans Memorial Park Foundation, will host a Memorial Day ceremony at the amphitheater. Marine Corps Major Gen. James S. Hartsell, executive director of the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs, will deliver the keynote address. Parking is available in the east and west garages and the south parking lot near the emergency room.
City of Orlando Memorial Day Commemoration
Date: May 24, 6 p.m.
Location: Greenwood Cemetery
District 4 City Commissioner Patty Sheehan and members of Mayor Buddy Dyer’s Veterans Advisory Council will lead a commemoration ceremony to honor U.S. Armed Forces members who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Sumter County Memorial Day Events
Memorial Day: Remember and Honor
Date: May 27, 11 a.m.
Location: Florida National Cemetery, Bushnell
The hour-long ceremony will include a flag presentation on horseback, a keynote address by Retired USMC Col. Thomas G. Bowman, a wreath presentation, patriotic music, a rifle volley/salute, and the playing of “echo” taps.
Volusia County Memorial Day Events
Memorial Day Weekend Special
Date: May 25-27, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
Location: Daytona Lagoon
Active and retired military members receive free waterpark admission by presenting a valid military ID.
Honor Guard Ceremony Honoring the Fallen
Date: May 25, noon
Location: Teddy Morse’s Daytona Harley-Davidson, Ormond Beach
The event includes a flag presentation, a 21-gun salute, “Taps,” and a march out.
These events provide an opportunity for Central Floridians to come together and pay tribute to the brave men and women who have sacrificed their lives for our country.