Memorial Day 2025 is shaping up to be a heartfelt and festive weekend across Kansas City and its neighboring towns. Whether you're honoring our heroes, diving into local culture, or just soaking up the start of summer, here's your go-to guide for events happening this Memorial Day weekend!
Kansas City Symphony “Celebration at the Station”
When: Sunday, May 25, 5:00 - 10:00 PM
Where: Union Station & National WWI Museum
More Info: KC Symphony Celebration
With an expected crowd of 50,000, this signature and FREE Memorial Day event is one you won’t want to miss! Expect a powerful symphony performance by the Kansas City Symphony, capped off with fireworks and real cannon fire during the 1812 Overture. It’s free, great for all ages, and a spectacular tribute to the men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.
Pro Tip: Make sure to plan your parking for the night, as the area will be crowded. We recommend taking the free Kansas City streetcar, which will operate until 11 p.m.
Memorial Day Freedom Run
When: Saturday, May 24, 7:30 AM
Where: Mill Creek Park
More Info: Memorial Day Freedom Run
With scenic routes, motivating challenges, and a community united in purpose, the Memorial Day Freedom Run is more than just a race—it's a meaningful way to pay respect while staying active. Choose from a 5K, 10K, half marathon, or family fun run!
WWI Museum Events
The WWI Museum honors those who sacrificed their lives while serving their country and holds multiple events throughout the weekend to pay respect to these individuals. Below is a quick overview of just a few of these amazing events; for more info, visit WWI Museum Memorial Day Events.
Veterans/active-duty military (including spouses and dependents with ID) can attend for free, and it is half-price General Admission for the public.
- Flags of Forgotten Soldiers Display (May 12-27): This moving display of 140 U.S. flags calls attention to the fact that 140 veterans are lost to suicide every week. Free to the public.
- Honoring Service Flag Display (May 23–26): These flags represent the involvement of U.S. military divisions in the WWI, WWII, Korean and Vietnam wars, as well as other more recent military conflicts.
- Warrior Pose: Yoga with Veterans (May 24): The Veterans Yoga Project offers restorative self-regulating practices to help veterans, service members, and military families recover from PTS(D).
- Film Screening: “SHEEPDOG” (May 24): Follows one combat veteran’s journey toward healing, and after the screening, join a discussion with writer-director Steven Grayhm and co-star Matt Dallas.
- Memorial Day Ceremony and Bell Tolling (May 26): A formal public program to include remarks from dignitaries and a keynote address from Major General (Ret.) William Razz Waff with ASL interpretation provided. Commemorate those who made the ultimate sacrifice with a bell-tolling ceremony featuring a presentation of colors, a wreath-laying, and a moving reading.
Fourth Fridays Art Walk & Music in the Park
When: Friday, May 23, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Where: Downtown Lee’s Summit & Howard Station Park
More Info: Fourth Fridays Art Walk and Music in the Park
Stroll through downtown Lee’s Summit and experience the blooming creativity by enjoying local art exhibits and live music performances. Make sure to bring a lawn chair or blanket!
Memorial Day Ceremony at Lee’s Summit Historical Cemetery
When: Monday, May 26, 8:00 AM
Where: 806 SE 3rd Street
More Info: Memorial Day Ceremony
Join this solemn ceremony to honor those who gave their lives in service and create a meaningful start to your Memorial Day.
Blue Springs Memorial Day Parade
When: Monday, May 26, 9:00 AM
Where: Downtown Blue Springs
More Info: Memorial Day Parade 2025
A longstanding tradition since World War II, this parade is a heartfelt tribute to those who served and features marching bands, veterans, and community groups.
Pro Tips for the Weekend
- Arrive Early: Popular events like Celebration at the Station fill up fast, so make sure to get there early to have plenty of time to park and snag a good spot!
- Stay Hydrated: The later weeks of May can start to heat up in Kansas City, so make sure to bring water, especially if you're attending outdoor events.
- Check for Updates: Event details can change. Always check official websites like Kansas City Mag or social media for the latest information.
Whether you're paying tribute to our heroes, enjoying local art and music, or simply spending time with loved ones, there's something for everyone this Memorial Day in Kansas City. Enjoy your weekend—and thank you to those who have served!
