As Memorial Day approaches, Central Florida gears up to honor the brave souls who have served in our Armed Forces. It’s a time for remembrance, reflection, and community spirit. With multiple events lined up across the area, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to pay tribute to those who gave their all.
This year, the Memorial Day festivities kick off on Thursday, May 21, in Ocoee. Starting at 11 a.m. at the Ocoee Lakeshore Center, the event will feature keynote speaker, Retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Elizabeth Bledsoe. Expect a solemn yet uplifting atmosphere as the Ocoee Police Department Honor Guard presents colors, followed by a processional to the Ocoee Memorial Wall. Mayor Rusty Johnson and city commissioners will recite the names of soldiers honored there, and let’s not forget the refreshments afterward—because, honestly, who doesn’t love a little nosh after an emotional ceremony?
Memorial Day Weekend Events
Moving on to Friday, May 22, the activity ramps up in Eustis and Orlando. Eustis will unveil a new Veterans Memorial at 9 a.m. in Greenwood Cemetery, while Orlando will host two events: one at 10 a.m. at the Orlando VA Medical Center, featuring Retired Rear Admiral Denise Hinton as the keynote speaker, and another at 6 p.m. at Greenwood Cemetery for a Memorial Day Commemoration Ceremony. Both promise a heartfelt remembrance of our heroes.
Now, let’s talk about Monday, May 25—the big day! Apopka will hold its ceremony at 11 a.m. at Edgewood/Greenwood Cemetery, in collaboration with VFW Post 10147 and the First Baptist Church of Apopka. Hamburgers and hot dogs by Boy Scout Troop 211? Count me in! Meanwhile, Gotha, Mount Dora, Orange County, Oviedo, Sanford, Windermere, and Winter Garden will all have their own ceremonies, each unique but united in purpose. From tributes to fallen heroes to flag presentations and the somber notes of “Taps,” it’s a day filled with emotion and gratitude.
- Gotha: 10 a.m. at Woodlawn Memorial Park – Tribute to fallen heroes.
- Mount Dora: 10 a.m. at Pine Forest Cemetery – Memorial Day tribute with Umatilla High School Army JROTC.
- Orange County: 8 a.m. at Orange County Courthouse – Ceremony led by Mayor Jerry Demings.
- Oviedo: 7 p.m. at Center Lake Park – Tribute at sunset.
- Sanford: 9 a.m. at Veterans Memorial Park – Display of restored military vehicles.
- Windermere: 10 a.m. at Town Hall – Presentation of colors and patriotic music.
- Winter Garden: 8:30 a.m. at Veterans Memorial Park – Ceremony with American Legion.
Looking ahead, the events don’t stop there! Memorial Day 2026 is just around the corner, and it promises another round of patriotic ceremonies, remembrance tributes, and community gatherings. Whether you’re in Groveland, Clermont, or Daytona, there are plenty of family-friendly activities lined up. So, if you’re in the area, why not check out the Promenade at Sunset Walk in Kissimmee from May 22-25? It’s a “Memorial 4 Day Weekend” with live entertainment and activities for all ages. And let’s not forget the Military Swim Free Memorial Day Weekend at Daytona Lagoon—what a great way for veterans to enjoy some fun under the sun!
For those looking to participate, remember to arrive early for parking, stay hydrated, and bring sunscreen. Respect during these ceremonies is paramount as we come together to honor the sacrifices made for our freedom.
For more details on these events, check out the full list of happenings in Central Florida from The Apopka Chief and My Central Florida Family. It’s shaping up to be a meaningful weekend for everyone!
So grab your family, pay your respects, and let’s make this Memorial Day one to remember!