Where to celebrate Memorial Day in Phoenix

Writer: Jerrica DuBois

May 2024 — A time to relax, yet still a time of reverence, Memorial Day is more than a three-day weekend for the working world. In Maricopa County, which is home to 245,171 military veterans, the county’s businesses and citizens come together to remember those who passed away while serving their country. While millions of people across the country will visit cemeteries to honor their loved ones who served, there are several events to enjoy in Phoenix over Memorial Day weekend. Invest: took a look at some of the best ways to celebrate in the city.

Home of the Brave 

Honoring America’s Veterans (HAV) will serve as the host for the Home of the Brave Memorial Day Program and Parade. Scheduled for May 27 at the VA National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona in Cave Creek, the program to honor fallen soldiers will feature a parade of colors, taps, and a keynote address by U.S. Army Specialist First Class, Diana Pike.

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Maricopa Memorial Day 5K

For those who enjoy the challenge of a 5K run, or walk, head to Copper Sky Recreation Center in Maricopa. The course is spectator friendly, and participants will receive finishers’ medals and an event shirt. An awards ceremony will follow, and all proceeds will benefit the Veterans in Need Project, which works to alleviate immediate hardships experienced by veterans in our local community. 

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Phoenix Fan Fusion

The annual Phoenix Fan Fusion pop culture event returns to the Phoenix Convention Center downtown for all-ages fun on Memorial Day weekend. The three-day event features an exhibit hall, game tournaments, fan panels, cosplay contests, afterdark parties, fandom meetups and much more. Celebrity guests, including Simu Liu and Dick Van Dyke, are also expected to join in on the fun.

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Arizona Boardwalk’s Foam Frenzy

Beat the heat and celebrate the official start of summer at the free Foam Frenzy event in the Arizona Boardwalk Courtyard. Families can enjoy the fun, and the water, at this unique Memorial Day party. The event features continuous foam parties, bubble stations, a classic fire truck for water play and photo opportunities, a water squirter battle zone, and other exciting water activities. Bring the kids out for the day, and don’t forget the water shoes and sunscreen.

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Michael Blackson at Stand Up Live

For a little laughter, head to Stand Up Live as comedian Michael Blackson headlines the holiday weekend. There are two shows Friday, two on Saturday, and one on Sunday to choose from, however, please be advised that general admission seating is on a first come, first serve basis.

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Scottsdale Margarita Fest

Who doesn’t love a good margarita? Salt rim, frozen, on the rocks, a little mango twist perhaps? Head to Wasted Grain in Scottsdale and celebrate all things surrounding this tequila-based classic. Ticket price includes a dozen margarita tastings! 

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