Memorial Day weekend is right around the corner and there are many Memorial Day Events on Cape Cod to help you commemorate the day.
Memorial Day, formerly known as Decoration Day, honors the men and women who have died while serving in the military, and its passage each year on the Cape is marked by many local parades and ceremonies to commemorate the day.
Decoration Day was originally only to remember those lost in the Civil War, but has since expanded to any service men and women who have died while serving. Now a federal holiday, Memorial Day unofficially marks the beginning of the summer season in the Cape.
How the Cape Celebrates Memorial Day
Overall, Memorial Day serves as a time for Americans to reflect on the sacrifices made by members of the armed forces in defense of their country and to honor their memory, but it is also a time for families to gather together. There are various events occurring throughout the Memorial Day Weekend on Cape Cod both patriotic and recreational, from Hyannis’ 20th annual Troops in the Spotlight to the Figawi Sailing Race that heads out of the harbor.
Read on for our comprehensive list of family-friendly Memorial Day events on Cape Cod during the holiday weekend!
Memorial Day Events on Cape Cod 2024:
Bourne (upper Cape)
- Memorial Day Commemoration Ceremony
Sunday May 26th, 1 PM
Bourne National Cemetery, Connery Ave
Falmouth (upper Cape)
- Memorial Day Parade & Ceremony
Monday May 27th, 9:45 AM
Falmouth Memorial Library, Depot Rd
Mashpee (upper Cape)
- Memorial Day Weekend Live Music
Friday May 24th thru Sunday May 26th 6 PM – 8:30 PM
Monday May 27th 3 PM- 5:30 PM
Mashpee Commons, 10 Evergreen Circle
Centerville (mid Cape)
- Memorial Day Pancake Breakfast
Monday May 27th, 8 AM
South Congregational Church, Fellowship Hall - Memorial Day Parade – 10AM
Hyannis (mid Cape)
- 20th annual Troops in the Spotlight
Sunday May 26th, 11:30 AM
Capetown Plaza, Rt. 132, Hyannis MA - Figawi Race Weekend
Saturday May 24th -27th
Hyannisport to Nantucket (best viewing from Kalmus Beach, Orrin Keyes Beach, or Sea Street Beach)
Dennis (mid Cape)
- Memorial Day Ceremony
Monday May 27th, 10 AM
Dennis Village Green
Yarmouth (mid Cape)
- Memorial Day Ceremony
Monday May 27th, 11 AM
Yarmouth Town Hall, 1146 Route 28
Brewster (lower Cape)
- Memorial Day Ceremony
Monday May 27th, 12 PM
Brewster Council on Aging, 1673 Main St
Harwich (lower Cape)
- Memorial Day Ceremony
Monday May 27th, 9:30 AM
Brooks Park
Family Gatherings on Memorial Day on Cape Cod
Memorial Day on Cape Cod is also often associated with gatherings of family and friends for outdoor activities, including barbecues, picnics, and trips to parks or beaches. The Figawi Sailing Race has long been one of the traditional Memorial Day Events on Cape Cod where families come from near and far to enjoy the festivities together.
Whatever Memorial Day Events on Cape Cod you choose to commemorate Memorial Day, whether it is a celebration, parade, or quiet walk, the day is intended as a day of remembrance. Regardless of the type of day you’re looking for, you will be able to find it on the Cape among the many options for events and activities during the long weekend.
With the busy summer season kicking off, the most popular time of the year is upon us. Additionally, since the Cape’s weather fluctuates a lot throughout the year, even the spring summer months can have some cool days. So, it’s best to travel with a lightweight jacket so that you’re always prepared for any weather changes.
As the Cape summer begins, get ready for beach days, farmer’s markets, great events, kayaking, and lobster rolls!
