Memorial Day was widely recognized for the first time on May 30, 1868, to honor the sacrifices soldiers made during the Civil War. It was originally called Decoration Day, named after the tradition of using flowers and flags to decorate soldiers’ graves. These traditions still endure, with decorated graves found at memorial sites throughout the U.S. to commemorate military lives lost.
Looking to participate? Many events are happening in San Diego. Whether you’re trying to learn more about Memorial Day and honor those who served, or just want some good old family fun, there’s something for you.
Leading Up to Memorial Day
Saturday: Santee Street Fair & Craft Beer Festival
The Santee Street Fair is one of East County’s biggest community events, drawing more than 30,000 people every year. It’s essentially a giant one‑day block party with more than 300 vendor booths, live music, a full kids zone and a Craft Beer Festival featuring local and regional breweries.
The Santee Chamber of Commerce puts it on each year to highlight local businesses and bring the community together. If you’re looking for something family‑friendly and super local, this is the spot.
The fair runs May 23 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more info, visit santeestreetfair.com.
Sunday: Vista Strawberry Festival
North County gets in on the fun, too, with the Vista Strawberry Festival. It’s one of the area’s most popular traditions– a full day of strawberry‑themed treats, vendors, entertainment and activities for all ages. The event takes place over downtown Vista and brings in thousands of people ready to celebrate the season and support local shops. If you love street fairs or just want something sweet, this one’s a must.
Events run all day on May 24. For more info, visit vistastrawberryfest.com.
Monday: Memorial Day
USS Midway Memorial Day Wreath‑Laying Ceremony
USS Midway Flight Deck
The USS Midway hosts its annual wreath‑laying ceremony at 9 a.m. to honor the men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. The event is open to the public, but attendees must be on board by 9:20 a.m. to enter free. The ceremony will also stream on Facebook Live for anyone watching from home.
At 3 p.m., the ship will join the National Moment of Remembrance with a minute of silence to honor fallen service members.
For more info, visit midway.org/event/legacy-week-2026.
Memorial Day Performances
USS Midway
These performances are included with general admission to the museum and run throughout the day on the flight deck:
- U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Arizona Band — 11 a.m.
- Bonita Vista High School’s Music Machine — 1:15 p.m.
- Desert Valley Winds Ensemble — 12:15 and 2:15 p.m.
Fort Rosecrans Memorial Day Celebration
Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery
Fort Rosecrans hosts one of San Diego’s largest and longest‑running Memorial Day ceremonies, starting at 10 a.m. this year.
Veterans’ groups and community organizations have led services here for more than a century. The cemetery itself is a historic landmark, with roots dating back to the mid‑1800s and the early military history of California. The ceremony is a powerful way to honor those who served and reflect on the meaning of the day.
The ceremony starts at 10 a.m. For more info, fortrosecransmemorialday.com.
Whether you’re hitting a street fair, grabbing strawberry treats or attending a ceremony, Memorial Day weekend in San Diego has plenty to offer. Stay safe!
