Memorial Day Events Around the Town

memorial day copyMemorial Day is a United States federal holiday observed on the last Monday of May (May 28 in 2018). Formerly known as Decoration Day, it commemorates U.S. Service Members who died while on active duty. First enacted to honor Union and Confederate soldiers following the American Civil War, it was extended after World War I to honor Americans who have died in all wars.

Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery

red.blue ribboncThe memorial service at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery honors all those who have served. It is held at 10 a.m. in the cemetery chapel amidst the headstones. Each year local boy scouts place an American flag on each of the nearly 190,000 headstones, making for an impressive sight. Jefferson Barracks is located at 2900 Sheridan Road, St. Louis 63125; phone number 314-845-8320.

Alton Memorial Day Parade

red.blue ribboncThe Memorial Day Parade in Alton, Illinois, is the oldest consecutive running Memorial Day parade in the nation, dating all the way back to 1868.

The parade honors American veterans and celebrates the history of this small Mississippi River town. The parade route begins at the intersection of College and Washington Avenues before coursing throughout the town.

Summer Zoo Weekends

Memorial Day means the start of extended weekend hours at the St. Louis Zoo, as well as the kickoff of the Jungle Boogie Friday Night Concert Series.

Featuring a very wide range of music genres, including rock, disco, soul, and even a Beatles’ cover band, this concert series runs all summer long and is free for guests of the zoo.

Food Trucks at Grant’s Farm

Built by famed army general Ulysses S. Grant, Grant’s Farm is now home to exotic animals, a garden, and free-flowing domestic brews from Anheuser Busch.

Memorial Day marks the beginning of extended summer hours at the farm, as well as the arrival of local food trucks serving up entrees, snacks, and sweets in the Tiergarten.

There will also be live music, carousel rides, and other family-friendly activities throughout the weekend.

St. Louis County Greekfest

The annual St. Louis County Greekfest will be held at Assumption Greek Orthodox Church, located at 1755 Des Peres Road, over Memorial Day weekend May 25 – 28.

Greek Fest is a lively environment destination in which you can experience the Greek community’s deeply rooted traditions and heritage.

Hours are Friday, Saturday, Sunday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Monday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. There will be live Greek entertainment and tons of Greek food.

Leave a Reply