As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, a national Memorial Day observance will be held at Arlington National Cemetery on May 25, 2026. Freedom 250, in partnership with America’s Medal of Honor recipients, announced the event on National Medal of Honor Day, March 25, and is calling on Americans across the country to come together to honor those who gave their lives in service to the nation.
“Memorial Day is a sacred obligation — a time for our country to pause and remember those who gave everything in defense of our great nation,” said Secretary of War Pete Hegseth. “As we approach America’s 250th anniversary, this observance at Arlington will stand as a powerful reminder of the cost of freedom and the character of those who secured it.”
“There is no group that better represents the courage, sacrifice, and brotherhood of our armed forces than these Medal of Honor recipients,” said Tim Holbert, President of the American Veterans Center. “Their presence ensures this observance is not only a remembrance, but a living testament to the values that define our nation. As we approach America’s 250th anniversary, now is the moment for all Americans to unite in gratitude to those who made the ultimate sacrifice – in dedication to the values of courage, sacrifice, integrity, and patriotism. These are the values shared and stories told through the National Medal of Honor Museum, which is proud to partner with Freedom 250 ahead of such an impactful ceremony and historic milestone.”
On Monday, May 25, 2026, Freedom 250 will lead a host of events, including the Spirit of America Parade, Memorial Day Observance at Arlington National Cemetery, and an evening candlelight storytelling gathering.
The National Memorial Day Parade is free and open to the public; no tickets are required. The Memorial Day Observance Ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery will be open to the public on a first-come, first-served basis. The ceremony will feature a powerful tribute to troops across the nation. The program will include tributes to Gold Star Families and Wounded Heroes, performances by military bands, and country music artist and Army veteran, Craig Morgan.
The evening will culminate in a moving Candlelight Storytelling Event, where renowned historians and personal tributes to those laid to rest at Arlington will bring their stories to life—creating a unifying moment of remembrance for the nation.
The Memorial Day Observance will be broadcast live from Arlington National Cemetery.
Find future events and learn more about Freedom 250 at Freedom250.org.
When
Monday, May 25, 2026
Location
Arlington National Cemetery
Arlington, Virginia
Program Timeline
Spirit of America Parade – Morning
Memorial Amphitheater Ceremony – Midday
Evening Candlelight Storytelling – Dusk