News Summary
As Memorial Day approaches, Orange County celebrates with a variety of activities honoring military heroes and involving families. From free admission at the Nixon Presidential Library to moving flag displays and community festivals like the Garden Grove Strawberry Festival, residents can enjoy a blend of remembrance and fun. Events include a wine festival, a BBQ party, and various solemn ceremonies throughout the county, culminating in the 68th Annual Memorial Day Ceremony. This year’s celebrations offer a perfect opportunity for families to engage and create lasting memories together.
Orange County Celebrates Memorial Day with Events and Ceremonies
As Memorial Day approaches, the vibrant community of Orange County is gearing up to celebrate this important holiday with a range of activities that honor our military heroes while also inviting families to join in the fun. Originally known as “Decoration Day,” Memorial Day was established to pay tribute to Union soldiers after the Civil War and has become a federal holiday since 1971. This year, from May 20 to May 30, Orange County is set to showcase a glorious blend of remembrance ceremonies and family-friendly events.
Free Admission for Our Heroes
One of the standout highlights this Memorial Day is the Nixon Presidential Library and Museum, which is generously offering free admission to all active-duty military personnel and their families through September 1, 2025. Nestled at 18001 Yorba Linda Blvd, Yorba Linda, the library boasts an array of exhibits, including Nixon’s birthplace, pivotal presidential materials, and the iconic Nixon White House tapes. Families can also explore 70 new family-friendly exhibits that are sure to spark interest and curiosity.
Flag Displays and Community Pride
The Field of Honor at Mission San Juan Capistrano is another poignant event running from May 20 to May 26. This powerful display features over 400 American flags, serving as a majestic tribute to our military personnel and first responders. Admission is free for active-duty members and veterans during this heartwarming exhibit located at 26801 Old Mission Rd, San Juan Capistrano.
A Toast to Good Times
If you’re looking for a more festive outing, the Newport Beach Wine Festival from May 23 to May 25 at Balboa Bay Resort is not to be missed! Experience a delightful opportunity to sip on an exclusive selection of wines and spirits, savor a 4-course dinner, and enjoy a bubbly Champagne brunch all while soaking up the gorgeous coastal vibe. Find the festival at 1221 West Coast Hwy, Newport Beach.
Fun at Newport Dunes
The Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort will also be alive with activity from May 23 to May 25. With an inflatable aquatic park and free live music performances, there’s joy in the air, inviting families to make lasting memories together. Head on over to 131 Back Bay Dr, Newport Beach for this exciting experience.
Strawberries and Celebrations in Garden Grove
Don’t forget the 65th Annual Garden Grove Strawberry Festival running from May 23 to May 26! Complete with a strawberry shortcake cutting ceremony, lively parades, fantastic live music, and fun carnival rides, this is a celebration that blends agricultural tradition with community spirit. You can find this berry wonderful event at 12762 Main St, Garden Grove.
BBQ Party at Hilton Irvine
If you’re craving some good food, mark your calendars for the Memorial Weekend BBQ Party at Hilton Irvine on May 24. From 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., this family-friendly event will include a delicious array of BBQ options alongside engaging activities for all ages. Visit them at 18800 MacArthur Blvd, Irvine.
Memorial Day Ceremonies
As Memorial Day itself arrives on May 26, various solemn ceremonies are scheduled to honor the fallen. The Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach will hold a touching “tolling the boats” ceremony at 11:00 a.m., while the Fountain Valley flag-raising ceremony kicks off at 10:00 a.m. Other locations celebrating include Huntington Beach at Pier Plaza at 11:00 a.m. with speeches and a rifle salute, and Mission Viejo at 200 Civic Center at 8:30 a.m. featuring refreshing musical performances and light refreshments. A lovely formation of 1,776 American flags will also be displayed at the Field of Honor at Castaways Park at 12:00 p.m.
Final Ceremony on May 30
Wrapping up the Memorial Day celebrations, the Freedom Committee of Orange County will conduct the 68th Annual Memorial Day Ceremony at Harbor Lawn-Mt. Olive Memorial Park on May 30, complete with a military flyover and inspiring speeches. Join the heartfelt remembrance at 625 Gisler Ave, Costa Mesa.
This Memorial Day, Orange County is not just about remembering those who sacrificed their lives for our freedom but is also a fantastic opportunity for families to engage, celebrate, and create memorable experiences together.
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Additional Resources
- Orange County Register: Memorial Day 2025 – 10 Things to Do
- Los Angeles Times: Honor Memorial Day in Orange County
- ABC7: Los Angeles Weather – Memorial Day Weekend
- Google Search: Memorial Day 2025
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Memorial Day
