Celebrate and Commemorate: Memorial Day Events in Southwest Florida

Memorial Day weekend is upon us, and while many of us are gearing up for barbecues, family gatherings, and perhaps a cold beer, it's important to remember the true significance of this holiday: to honor and remember the brave men and women who sacrificed everything for our freedom. Across Southwest Florida, there are numerous events that provide meaningful ways to commemorate this solemn day while enjoying time with loved ones. Here are some highlights:

Estero - Memorial Day Family Event

📅 Monday, May 27th
🕒 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
📍 Gulf Coast Town Center Courtyard
📝 A family-friendly event featuring yard games, raffles, face painting, vendors, and live performances by Big Cypress Band and Hot Flashz. The Lee County Sheriff's Office will present the Colors. Proceeds benefit the Southwest Florida Military Museum. Bring a chair or blanket to enjoy the festivities comfortably.

Fort Myers - Memorial Gardens Cemetery Ceremony

📅 Monday, May 27th
🕒 9:30 AM
📍 Memorial Gardens Cemetery, Field of Honor
📝 Join the community for a poignant ceremony featuring a flyover by the U.S. Coast Guard. There will also be a cook-off following the event. On Saturday, May 25th, you can help place American flags at each gravesite starting at 8:00 AM. Arrive early to participate, as this is a popular event.

Cape Coral - All American Country BBQ

📅 Sunday, May 26th
🕒 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM
📍 German American Social Club
📝 Enjoy a festive day with delicious food, live music, and free entry for active and retired military personnel.

Bonita Springs - Memorial Day Service

📅 Monday, May 27th
🕒 9:00 AM
📍 Riverside Park, 10450 Reynolds St., Bonita Springs, FL 34135
📝 The City of Bonita Springs Veterans Advisory Committee invites the public to a Memorial Day Service featuring guest speaker US Air Force Lieutenant General Robert J. Elder Jr. (ret.). The ceremony will include traditional commemorations such as the Posting of the Colors, Presentation of the Blue/Gold Star Banners, a 21-gun salute, and the laying of the wreaths. Note: There will be a road closure on Old 41 Road from Wilson Street to Ragsdale Street during the ceremony from 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM.

Punta Gorda - Memorial Day 5K Run

📅 Monday, May 27th
📍 YMCA, Laishley Park
Registration Fee: $35
📝 Honor fallen heroes with a Memorial Day 5K run. Participants of all ages, including children and pets, are welcome. The event concludes with an awards ceremony. For more information and to register, click here.

Whatever your plans, we hope you stay safe and take a moment to reflect on the bravery and sacrifices of those who have served our country. Enjoy the weekend, and let’s honor the true meaning of Memorial Day together.