Des Moines Memorial Day Weekend: Events, Parades, And Remembrance

4 min read Post on May 30, 2025

Des Moines Memorial Day Weekend: Events, Parades, And Remembrance

Memorial Day Parades in Des Moines

Several parades across the Des Moines metro area commemorate Memorial Day, providing opportunities to show your respect and participate in community remembrance.

Downtown Des Moines Parade (Details to be confirmed closer to the date)

(Note: Details for the Downtown Des Moines Memorial Day parade will be updated as they become available closer to the Memorial Day weekend. Check local news and city websites for the most current information.)

Time: [Insert Time Here – To be confirmed]
Route: [Insert Parade Route Here – To be confirmed] The parade will typically travel through the heart of downtown, passing iconic landmarks.
Participating Groups: Expect to see veterans’ organizations, local high school marching bands, community groups, and more, all showcasing patriotism and remembrance.
Special Features: [Insert any planned special features here, e.g., flyovers, musical performances, etc. - To be confirmed]
Parking: Utilize public parking garages downtown or consider arriving early to secure street parking. [Insert specific parking suggestions here if available - To be confirmed]
Accessibility: [Insert details regarding accessibility for those with disabilities - To be confirmed]

Other City/Suburb Parades

While the downtown parade is the largest, several smaller communities surrounding Des Moines also hold their own Memorial Day parades. These offer a more intimate setting to honor fallen soldiers.

West Des Moines Memorial Day Parade: [Insert date, time, and location details here – To be confirmed] Check the West Des Moines city website for the most up-to-date information.
Urbandale Memorial Day Parade: [Insert date, time, and location details here – To be confirmed] Check the Urbandale city website for schedule and route details.
Ankeny Memorial Day Events: [Insert date, time, and location details of any parades or events here – To be confirmed]. Check the Ankeny city website for details.

Memorial Day Ceremonies and Remembrance Events

Beyond the parades, several ceremonies and events provide opportunities for quiet reflection and remembrance.

Official Memorial Day Ceremony at [Location - e.g., Veterans Memorial Park]

This official ceremony typically includes heartfelt speeches, tributes to fallen heroes, and moments of silence to honor their sacrifice.

Time: [Insert Time Here – To be confirmed]
Location: [Insert Location Here – To be confirmed, e.g., Veterans Memorial Park, Downtown Des Moines]
Speakers: [Insert names of speakers or types of speakers if known - To be confirmed] Expect speeches from local dignitaries, veterans, and community leaders.
Planned Events: [Insert details about any planned events, such as wreath laying, 21-gun salute, etc. – To be confirmed]

Veteran's Memorials and Visits

Take some time to visit the various veterans’ memorials scattered throughout Des Moines. These are powerful places for personal reflection and paying tribute to those who served.

Location 1: [Name of Memorial, Address, Brief History]
Location 2: [Name of Memorial, Address, Brief History]
Location 3: [Name of Memorial, Address, Brief History]
Suggested Visiting Times: These memorials are typically open throughout the day, allowing for quiet reflection at your convenience.

Family-Friendly Memorial Day Weekend Activities in Des Moines

While remembering those who served is paramount, Memorial Day weekend also offers a chance to enjoy time with family and friends.

Parks and Outdoor Recreation

Des Moines boasts numerous beautiful parks, perfect for picnics, outdoor games, and relaxing in the sunshine.

Principal Riverwalk: Enjoy a scenic walk or bike ride along the Des Moines River.
Gray's Lake Park: Rent a boat, enjoy the playground, or simply relax by the water.
Wakonda Park: Offers various recreational activities, including hiking trails and open spaces for picnics.
Special Events: Check individual park websites for any special events or activities planned for Memorial Day weekend.

Museums and Attractions

For indoor fun, Des Moines offers a variety of museums and attractions suitable for all ages.

Blank Park Zoo: Get up close and personal with animals from around the world.
State Historical Museum of Iowa: Explore Iowa's rich history and heritage.
Des Moines Art Center: Discover a diverse collection of art from various periods and styles.
Hours of Operation: Check each attraction’s website for their specific hours of operation during the Memorial Day weekend.

Conclusion

This Memorial Day weekend, honor the sacrifices of fallen heroes while enjoying all that Des Moines offers. From poignant parades and remembrance ceremonies to family-friendly fun, there's something for everyone. Plan your Des Moines Memorial Day weekend now, utilizing the information above to make the most of this important holiday. Don't forget to check local listings closer to the date for any last-minute additions to the Des Moines Memorial Day event schedule. Remember to show your respect and appreciation this Memorial Day!