Anchorage Remembers Memorial Day Ceremony

Anchorage Remembers is the Municipality of Anchorage’s official Memorial Day observance, held each year at the Delaney Park Strip Veterans Memorial in downtown Anchorage. You will join families, veterans, and visitors for a formal ceremony featuring patriotic music, guest speakers, and a wreath-laying that honors those who served. After the morning program, we suggest staying a bit longer to walk the memorials at your own pace, then continuing toward Westchester Lagoon for a quiet pause by the water.

Plan to arrive for a 9:30 AM start, with the Chugach Mountains setting a striking backdrop behind local military leaders, civic officials, and community members. The tone is solemn and respectful, with signature moments such as the presentation of the colors by a local honor guard and the playing of Taps. For the clearest sightlines, position yourself along I Street or within the Veterans Memorial area.

For a smooth morning, arrive by 9:00 AM to claim a good viewing spot and find street parking in nearby downtown blocks. Admission is free and no tickets are required. Dress in layers and bring a waterproof jacket since conditions can shift quickly, and pack a folding chair or small blanket if you prefer to sit on the grass during the speakers. The park strip is outdoors and accessible, but it is a wide open space with limited shade; well-behaved dogs on leashes are typically allowed, and you should keep them calm during the ceremony.

If you want to stay close, choose a hotel in Downtown Anchorage for easy access to the park strip and nearby dining. For a quieter base, consider vacation rentals near Bootleggers Cove or along the Inlet, and research cabins and regional stays through Lake.com. The ceremony usually continues in light rain, and in severe weather you should check municipal updates for any location changes; limited seating is often reserved for veterans and elderly guests, so most attendees stand or bring their own chair.