Memorial Day at Lakewood Cemetery

Spend Memorial Day morning at Lakewood Cemetery in Minneapolis for a measured, moving tribute on the shores of Bde Maka Ska. You will gather at the Soldiers Memorial for the official ceremony, set among rolling lawns, landmark architecture, and long lake views. Many visitors arrive with time to honor fallen service members, then continue on foot to explore monuments and the grounds that make Lakewood a destination in its own right.

Expect a quiet, respectful atmosphere shared by families, veterans, and local residents. The day begins with the grounds opening at 10:00 AM, followed by the Memorial Day Ceremony from 10:30 AM to 11:15 AM at the Soldiers Memorial. Arrive at least 30 minutes early if you want the best chance at seating, since only limited folding chairs are provided.

After the ceremony, you can deepen the experience through several on-site offerings. A self-guided veterans tour runs on your phone, and the Welcome Center typically hosts postcard writing to veterans plus support from genealogical experts. At 1:00 PM, step into the Memorial Chapel for a community sing or musical performance through 2:00 PM, and plan time for quiet reflection while the chapel remains open.

Plan for an outdoor morning: wear comfortable walking shoes, bring water and sunscreen, and keep snacks small to preserve the tone of the grounds. Leave pets at home and skip recreational activities such as biking. If weather shifts, the program may move indoors or shorten outdoors, so check the official website the morning of. Parking near the ceremony site can fill quickly, so consider ride-share or the Como-Harriet Streetcar; if you need accessible access, designated handicap parking is available near the ceremony site in Section 24.