Memorial Day, celebrated on the last Monday in May, is a federal holiday that has its roots in the years after the Civil War, a tradition intended to recognize the sacrifice of Union soldiers who had died in the effort to end slavery.
Over the years, it has become a widespread memorial to all those who died while serving in the US military. Memorial Day also marks the unofficial start of summer and is often celebrated with barbecues and other celebrations.
Here's a list of some Memorial Day events scheduled for Monday in and around Los Angeles.
Memorial Day Ceremony in West Los Angeles
The Department of Veterans Affairs will host a public Memorial Day commemoration ceremony at the Los Angeles National Cemetery, 950 S. Sepulveda Blvd., from 10 to 11 a.m.
Los Angeles Fleet Week in San Pedro
There will be a series of Los Angeles Fleet Week events over the weekend and on Monday, including an evening Memorial Day service at the Main Expo Footprint on the USS Battleship Iowa, 250 S. Harbor Blvd., Saint Peter. The program includes tours on active duty ships, band performances, military displays and flyovers.
MVP Los Angeles Annual Walk to Remember from Santa Monica to West Los Angeles
Merging Vets and Players, a peer support organization bringing together combat veterans and former professional athletes, will lead a walk from the Santa Monica Pier to the Los Angeles National Cemetery (approximately 4.8 miles) before a scheduled ceremony which will include speakers and entertainment. Attendees are expected to gather by the canyon at the Santa Monica Pier and the walk will begin at 7:15 am.
Memorial Day at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum
A ceremony will be held Monday from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Simi Valley Library and will include live music. The program includes a flyover, honor guard, live music and remarks from Gold Star family member Tony Cordero and Robert Kimnach III, commanding officer of Naval Base Ventura County.
Memorial Day Parade at Canoga Park
The 32nd Canoga Park Memorial Day Parade will follow a route along Sherman Way from Owensmouth Avenue to Cozycroft Avenue in the San Fernando Valley. There will be an opening ceremony at 10 a.m., followed by the parade at 11 a.m.
Garden Grove Strawberry Festival
Featuring carnival attractions, food and live music, the final day of the 64th annual Garden Grove Strawberry Festival will take place from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday on the Village Green, between Euclid and Main streets, downtown from Garden Grove.
Beautiful Party in Playa Hermosa
The annual Fiesta Hermosa weekend festival will continue Monday with a carnival, beach concerts, food fair and hundreds of vendors lining up along the intersection of Hermosa Avenue and Pier Avenue. Events will take place throughout the day in Hermosa Beach. Admission to most festival areas is free to the public.
Topanga Days Country Fair
The bohemian festival in scenic Topanga Canyon comes complete with food, music, and a Memorial Day parade. The parade will take place approximately between 8:30 am and 10 am. The festival itself requires paid tickets, although it is free for active military members.
Holidays in La Cañada Flintridge
Monday's Holiday program in La Cañada Flintridge will include a memorial service at 9 a.m. and a parade at 10:30 a.m., followed by games, food and music, at Memorial Park. 1301 Hill Blvd.
San Fernando Valley Greek Festival
The 48th celebration of Greek culture, dance, food and music will take place from noon to 9 p.m. at St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church, 9501 Balboa Blvd., Northridge.
Los Angeles County Fair: Stars, Stripes and Fun
The fair will be held from 11 am to 11 pm Admission can be purchased in advance online; Concerts have a separate cost. The event takes place at the Fairplex at 1101 W. McKinley Ave. in Pomona.
