Memorial Day is celebrated on the last Monday in May. However, the festivities in Los Angeles extend over a weekend—three busy days full of events, starting from traditional commemorating ceremonies of service men and women who gave their lives for their country, and ending with community fairs and beach events.
Los Angeles Fleet Week (May 22–27, 2024)
LA Fleet Week is the largest Memorial Day Weekend event in Southern California. Held on the waterfront at the Port of Los Angeles, the festival features plenty of live entertainment and military displays, such as equipment demonstrations, aircraft flyovers, and performances by military bands. Other highlights include downtown San Pedro and Wilmington parties and cook-off competitions between teams comprised of Navy, Marines, and Coast Guard servicemen and women. Most of the events are free for the public to attend.
Memorial Day Commemoration Ceremony (May 27, 2024)
Every year, the Department of Veterans Affairs hosts a public commemoration ceremony for the fallen heroes at the Los Angeles National Cemetery, located at 950 S. Sepulveda Blvd. The ceremony starts at 10 am.
Memorial Day Celebration at Forest Lawn (May 27, 2024)
Another memorial service takes place at the Forest Lawn cemetery. It includes patriotic music, a rifle salute, a color guard procession, and more.
Other celebrations in the neighborhood
The Sky Rose Chapel at Rose Hills in Whittier features a special concert with the participation of Veterans of Foreign Wars, the American Legion, and the American Heritage Ensemble. One more popular location to pay your respects is Battleship USS Iowa in San Pedro. The USS Iowa is a battleship that participated in World War II. The ship is now a museum that offers educational exhibits and public tours. The annual Memorial Day Parade can be seen in Canoga Park, San Fernando Valley. It features military units, marching bands, floats, antique cars, flyovers by the military, and equestrian demonstrations.
Happy Face Music Festival (May 25, 2024)
Add some more music to your Memorial Day weekend at the Happy Face Music Festival (former Simi Valley Cajun and Blues Festival) focusing on Cajun-Creole music. A scenic Simi Valley hosts a few musical stages with Creole, Cajun, zydeco, and blues music. Over 150 booths offer crafts and Louisiana food favorites like jambalaya, po' boy, cornbread, or alligator sausage. A vast kids area has bouncers, carnival rides, rock walls, and talent shows.
Memorial Day Fiesta Hermosa in Hermosa Beach (May 25–27, 2024)
Other popular events of the Memorial Day weekend include Fiesta Hermosa held at downtown Hermosa Beach. Over 400 stalls offer arts, crafts, fine foods, and beverages. Entertainment includes live music and a beautiful beach just a few steps away.
Topanga Days at Topanga Canyon (May 25–27, 2024)
At last, Topanga Days Festival attracts thousands of visitors to the beautiful Topanga Canyon. Live music, food, arts, and ‘60s hippie spirit make this event one of a kind.
