Memorial Day Celebration in Jamestown

Memorial Day Celebration at State Dock on Lake Cumberland is Jamestown’s unofficial start to summer, drawing boaters and shore visitors to the marina for a full weekend on the water. You will see pontoons and houseboats filling the slips, with long lake days that carry into evening. Alongside the social scene, the holiday’s meaning stays present through moments of remembrance and gratitude for those who served.

Most of the action happens along the docks. Live music is staged on the slips, so you can move between shoreline and marina with a steady soundtrack in the background. Families and friend groups make a day of it, and you can expect the season’s first major push of the rental fleet, plus relaxed cookouts and shared gatherings after the sun drops.

Plan like a local. Arrive early if you want marina parking, since the lot tightens up by mid-afternoon, and be ready for a short walk if you end up in overflow areas. Bring strong sun protection and light layers for cooler temperatures after sunset, and pack a small cooler with water and snacks even though on-site vendors and marina services are available. If you bring pets, keep them leashed throughout the marina and dock areas.

For a convenient base, book lodging at Lake Cumberland State Resort Park or choose a private vacation rental near Jamestown or Russell Springs, with options available through Lake.com. Dockside access and live music are generally free to the public. If rain moves in, activities often continue under covered dock areas, though rentals may pause during severe weather. You can bring your own boat, but transient slips are limited, so coordinate in advance with the harbormaster, and if you missed a rental reservation, check for last-minute cancellations since boats typically sell out months ahead.