Memorial Day is welcomed by workers every spring as a welcome three day weekend, complete with picnics and parades. Memorial Day is much more than a three day weekend. The day commemorates the military sacrifices made in defense of America's freedom.
The freedoms that many Americans take for granted were paid for by blood and lives. Americans must not forget the very real sacrifices made by military men and women of the United States Armed Forces, as well as their families.
Americans celebrate individual freedom and the right to the pursuit of happiness. Memorial Day is a day to be thankful to live in the United States, where freedom and democracy are proudly defended.
Memorial Day Wreath Laying Ceremony and Parade Saturday, May 24, 11:00 am
The city of Chicago Memorial Day Parade and Wreath Laying Ceremony takes place on Saturday, May 24.
- City of Chicago Memorial Day Parade. According to the City of Chicago website, the Memorial Day Parade in Chicago is one of the largest events of its kind. Over 10,000 people participate in the Memorial Day events annually. Parade participants include Veteran's groups, JROTC, military, high school marching bands and drum and bugle corps.
- Chicago's Memorial Day Weath Laying Celemony.Chicago's Memorial Day celebration starts with a wreath laying ceremony, held at 11 am at the Eternal Flame on Daley Plaza at Dearborn and Washington Streets.
- Memorial Day Parade Route. The Memorial Day Parade steps off at noon and proceeds south on State Street from Wacker Drive to Van Buren Street.
Navy Pier Fireworks
Chicago's magnificent skyline will be dazzling with the fireworks show off of Navy Pier. On Memorial Day weekend there will be two pyrotechnics shows delighting the crowds. Patriotic music will fill the air as fireworks light the skies. Memorial Day Weekend fireworks shows take place on Saturday, May 24 at 10:00 pm and on Sunday, May 25 at 9:30 pm.
Navy Pier Fireworks Shows Continue All Summer Long
The pyrotechnics shows on Memorial Day weekend begin a summer of fireworks shows that take place twice a week during the summer months. Fireworks displays will be held every Saturday and Wednesday through Labor Day on Navy Pier. The Navy Pier website lists a schedule of pyrotechnics shows for the summer months.
Chicago Mayor's Office Encourages Public Transportation
Memorial Day events are extremely popular and well attended in Chicago. The city of Chicago encourages the use of public transportation. Public transportation includes the Metra Train which travels to and from the city from the Chicago suburbs and CTA buses.
Remember the Reason for Memorial Day
Honor the sacrifices made by the men and women of the United States Armed Forces and of their families by celebrating Memorial Day events responsibly.
