Memorial Day is a yearly observance during which we remember those brave service members who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our freedoms. Taking place on the last Monday of May, it’s a special holiday to reflect and pay our respects to our fallen military personnel. Being home to Hunter Army Airfield and proximal to other military bases, Savannah has seen many military members throughout the years. And locals hold these heroes in high regard. For that reason, there are always several Memorial Day celebrations taking place around town. If you’re looking for a commemorative event to attend this Memorial Day weekend, here’s a round-up of local holiday happenings.
Flags for the Fallen
The third annual Flags for the Fallen tribute will begin on Friday, May 26 at 9:30 a.m. The tribute consists of 26,000 48-star American flags and is located in the Memorial Gardens at the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force. The flags honor the 26,000 Eighth Air Force airmen who gave their lives in World War II. The flag display, which covers the museum’s entire memorial garden and chapel grounds, will be open to the public through Monday, May 29.
Savannah Salutes
Plant Riverside District will host the 2023 ‘Savannah Salutes’ Memorial Day celebration from May 26-29 alongside Savannah’s historic riverfront at 400 W. River St. This patriotic four-day event will include a special Memorial Day presentation by the Veterans of Foreign Wars on the Montgomery Park Stage on Monday, May 29 at 5 p.m. as well as free live music and food and drink options for all ages throughout the holiday weekend.
Featured performers include the Parris Island Marine Band on Saturday, May 27 at 1 p.m.; the Eric Culberson Blues Band on Sunday, March 28 at 1 p.m.; Hollifield on Sunday, March 28 at 6 p.m.; and Laiken Love and The Fellowship of Love on Monday, May 29 at 1 p.m. Additional highlights include a Savannah Ghost Pirates Slapshot Booth on Saturday, March 27 and Sunday, March 28 from 2 to 6 p.m. as well as nightly fountain shows in Martin Luther King, Jr. Park at 9 p.m. featuring patriotic music and a tribute to the U.S. Armed Forces.
Throughout the holiday weekend, Plant Riverside District’s iconic smokestacks, fountains and other familiar landmarks will be illuminated with red, white and blue lights after dark.
Memorial Day Commemoration
On Saturday, May 27 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Fort McAllister State Park will present a Memorial Day Commemoration to pay tribute to patriots who died in the line of service. There will be living history interpretations throughout the day as well as musket and cannon firings. Attendees are also welcome to tour the fort, museum and grounds of Fort McAllister.
Memorial Day Ceremony
The City of Richmond Hill is hosting their annual Memorial Day Ceremony on May 29 at 11 a.m. at J.F. Gregory Park in honor and remembrance of the men and women who laid down their lives for freedom.
