Memorial Day Weekend 2025 is set to be a significant occasion in Wantagh, New York, with events and parades honoring the sacrifices made by military personnel. The Wantagh American Legion Post 1273 is organizing a Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony on Monday, starting at 10 a.m. at the intersection of Beltagh and Wantagh avenues, followed by a ceremony at the Legion post.
Notably, the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds will be the highlight of the Memorial Day weekend airshow at Jones Beach. Other military performances scheduled for the show include the United States Army Golden Knights Parachute Team, along with demonstrations from the United States Marine Corps and the United States Navy featuring their advanced F-35 aircraft. The event will take place over the weekend and is free for attendees, though a standard vehicle entry fee of $10 will be collected each day at the state park.
In addition to Wantagh, neighboring communities will also celebrate with their own parades and events, including Long Beach, Rockville Centre, Cedarhurst, New Hyde Park, and Farmingdale. Over the years, Memorial Day has also become a time for families to pay their respects at cemeteries in Lindenhurst, decorating the graves of relatives with flowers, whether or not the individuals served in the military.
The observance of Memorial Day, which originated as Decoration Day in 1868 under General John A. Logan’s initiative to honor fallen Union soldiers, has evolved to commemorate all who have lost their lives in military service. Waterloo, New York, is recognized as the birthplace of the holiday, with its first observance taking place on May 5, 1866.
This Memorial Day weekend promises to be filled with heartfelt tributes, community gatherings, and displays of gratitude for those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. It acts as a poignant reminder of the importance of remembrance and civic duty in honoring the past while fostering community spirit.