How to Celebrate Memorial Day in Anaheim and Orange County

Garden Grove Strawberry Festival

Memorial Day Weekend in Anaheim and across Orange County is a meaningful time to reflect, remember and celebrate the beginning of summer in Southern California. From patriotic memorial ceremonies and historic landmarks to beach festivals, outdoor adventures and world-famous attractions, Anaheim and Orange County offer countless ways to spend the long holiday weekend.

Whether visitors are travelling with family, planning a romantic coastal escape or looking for cultural experiences, Memorial Day in Anaheim combines remembrance, entertainment and sunshine in one unforgettable destination.

Honouring Heroes at Anaheim Memorial Day Events

At the heart of Memorial Day is a deep respect for the brave servicemen and women who sacrificed for their country. One of the most important commemorative events in Anaheim is the annual Memorial Day Program at Anaheim Cemetery, taking place on May 25 in front of the Community Mausoleum.

The moving ceremony provides visitors and locals with an opportunity to gather in remembrance and pay tribute to military veterans and fallen heroes.

Travellers can also visit the Anaheim Veterans Monument beside the Muzeo Museum and Cultural Center. Dedicated in 1999 and created by local artist Richard Turner, the monument honours all branches of the United States military and serves as a lasting tribute throughout the year.

Celebrate at the Garden Grove Strawberry Festival

One of the most popular Memorial Day traditions in Orange County is the famous Garden Grove Strawberry Festival, running from May 22 to 25.

This long-running community celebration combines carnival rides, live entertainment, games, parades and the beloved strawberry shortcake cutting ceremony. Visitors can enjoy family-friendly attractions, strawberry-themed treats and a festive atmosphere that captures the spirit of Southern California during the holiday weekend.

With free admission and entertainment for all ages, the festival remains one of the best Memorial Day events near Anaheim.

Experience the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration

Disneyland Resort

A Memorial Day visit to Disneyland Resort is always a highlight, but 2026 brings even more excitement with the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration continuing through August 9.

Guests can experience returning nighttime spectaculars including Paint the Night, Wondrous Journeys and World of Color Happiness while exploring Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure Park and Downtown Disney District.

The long weekend is the perfect excuse to slow down, create family memories and enjoy one of the world’s most iconic entertainment destinations during a landmark celebration year.

Enjoy Outdoor Adventures Across Orange County

Southern California’s beautiful coastline and outdoor spaces make Memorial Day Weekend ideal for adventure and relaxation.

Visitors can head to Dana Point or Newport Beach for unforgettable whale-watching tours, where late May often brings sightings of migrating gray whales, dolphins and other marine life.

Nature lovers can also explore Crystal Cove State Park, known for its coastal trails, tide pools and panoramic Pacific Ocean views. For a unique hiking experience, Carbon Canyon Regional Park features a surprising grove of towering redwood trees in the heart of Orange County.

From beach walks and hiking trails to surfing and cycling, Orange County offers endless opportunities to enjoy the outdoors over the long weekend.

Relax at the Newport Beach Wine and Spirits Festival

Travellers seeking a more sophisticated Memorial Day escape can visit the Newport Beach Wine and Spirits Festival on May 22 and 23 at the luxurious Balboa Bay Resort.

The waterfront event features wine tastings, champagne brunches, craft cocktails, live music and workshops hosted by sommeliers and winemakers. The relaxed coastal setting creates a stylish way to spend the holiday weekend while enjoying Newport Beach’s scenic harbour atmosphere.

Tunes at the Dunes Brings Live Music to the Waterfront

Tunes at the Dunes

Memorial Day Weekend also means the return of Tunes at the Dunes at Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina.

Running from May 22 to 24, this beachfront entertainment series combines live music, food trucks, family activities and waterfront relaxation along the Upper Newport Back Bay. Guests can enjoy water sports, inflatable aquatic attractions and evening performances while relaxing beside the calm coastal waters.

This year’s lineup includes country, reggae and classic rock performances, making it one of the most enjoyable outdoor entertainment events of the long weekend.

Explore American History at the Nixon Presidential Library

A short drive from Anaheim, the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum offers visitors a meaningful opportunity to explore American history during Memorial Day Weekend.

The museum features exhibits dedicated to military service, presidential history and major historical moments that shaped the United States. The “America 250” exhibition celebrates 250 years of American history, including the Boston Tea Party, the California Gold Rush and both World Wars.

The museum provides an educational and reflective experience that complements the spirit of Memorial Day.

Mission San Juan Capistrano Hosts Field of Honor Tribute

Mission San Juan Capistrano

From May 19 to 25, Mission San Juan Capistrano presents “Homefront America’s Field of Honor,” one of the region’s most moving Memorial Day installations.

The historic mission courtyard is transformed into a sea of seven-foot American flags displayed in solemn formation to honour military servicemembers, veterans and first responders.

The tribute creates a powerful atmosphere of remembrance and reflection while allowing visitors to experience one of California’s most historic landmarks.

Visit Military Memorials Across Orange County

Orange County is home to numerous military memorials and monuments dedicated to honouring those who served.

Travellers can visit sites including the Vietnam War Monument in Westminster, the Korean War Memorial in Fullerton, the Marine War Memorial in Newport Beach, the Veterans Memorial at Depot Park in Orange and Patriot Point overlooking the Pacific Coast Highway in Huntington Beach.

The Heroes Hall Museum at the OC Fair & Event Center is another meaningful destination that highlights the stories and sacrifices of Orange County veterans.

Know Before You Go

Memorial Day Weekend is one of the busiest travel periods in Southern California, so planning ahead is essential. Visitors should book accommodation, attraction tickets and event reservations early to avoid disappointment.

Traffic around Anaheim, Orange County beaches and major events can be heavy during the long weekend, especially near festival parades and coastal destinations. Travellers are encouraged to allow extra travel time and check event schedules before attending.

With a perfect blend of remembrance, entertainment, culture and outdoor adventure, Memorial Day Weekend in Anaheim and Orange County offers travellers an unforgettable Southern California holiday experience.

Web Contact Details:
Visit Anaheim: Visit Anaheim Official Website
Disneyland Resort: Disneyland Resort Official Website
Garden Grove Strawberry Festival: Garden Grove Strawberry Festival Official Website
Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina: Newport Dunes Official Website
Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum: Richard Nixon Presidential Library Official Website
Mission San Juan Capistrano: Mission San Juan Capistrano Official Website

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