<\/p>\n
From solemn ceremonies to community celebrations, Erie County\u2019s Memorial Day weekend offers a wide range of ways for residents to reflect, remember, and honor those who gave their lives in service to the nation.<\/p>\n
Communities across Erie County are preparing for a full weekend of Memorial Day events, ceremonies, and celebrations that can all be found below:<\/p>\n
Saturday, May 23<\/p>\n
The weekend begins with several events focused on fitness, remembrance, and community engagement.<\/p>\n
At 8 a.m. and 10 a.m., Erie Fitness Academy will host the annual Memorial Day Murph workout, with proceeds benefiting Mission 22, a nonprofit supporting veteran.<\/p>\n
From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., a Memorial Day Madness plant sale will take place at Jo Anna Connell Elementary, featuring flowers, vegetables, and garden items.<\/p>\n
At 12 p.m., Buzz N\u2019 B\u2019s Aquarium and Pet Shop will host Pets for Vets, where attendees can meet adoptable animals and learn about waived adoption fees for veterans through the Erie Humane Society.<\/p>\n
Festivities continue at 2 p.m. with a Memorial Day picnic and party at Hardknocks Cafe Clubhouse, featuring food, refreshments, and live music beginning at 5 p.m.<\/p>\n
In the evening, live entertainment continues with Kallie & Kayla performing at Voodoo Brewing Co. from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.<\/p>\n
Sunday, May 24<\/p>\n
Events honoring veterans continue Sunday with ceremonies and community activities.<\/p>\n
At 10 a.m., residents can participate in an Early Memorial Day Workout at the Eastside YMCA, with donations supporting YMCA Veteran Programs.<\/p>\n
Also, at 10 a.m., the Bullseye Bash at Erie County Sportsman\u2019s League, hosted by McKean Hose Company, will bring community members together for friendly competition.<\/p>\n
At 11:30 a.m., the American Legion Post will host a Memorial Day Ceremony at Lakeside Cemetery, followed by honors at Soldiers and Sailors Home and a community lunch.<\/p>\n
At 1 p.m. the Pennsylvania Soldiers\u2019 & Sailors\u2019 Home will hold a Memorial Day Ceremony at the Pennsylvania Soldiers\u2019 & Sailors\u2019 Home Gazebo<\/p>\n
Monday, May 25 \u2014 Memorial Day<\/p>\n
Memorial Day itself features a full lineup of ceremonies and tributes across the region.<\/p>\n
Beginning at 9:45 a.m. in Lawrence Park, with a ceremony at Gibson Park followed by a Memorial Day parade and additional services at Oak Hill Cemetery.<\/p>\n
At 10 a.m., community members are invited to gather on Cherry Street in Waterford for a ceremony honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice. The Memorial Day Hot Seat event at Presque Isle Downs & Casino also begins at 10 a.m., continuing throughout the day until 6 p.m.<\/p>\n
At 11 a.m., a special ceremony in Wesleyville outside of the Lawrence Park Police Station will honor 12 local World War II veterans, with several families attending to recognize their loved ones\u2019 service.<\/p>\n
In Girard, activities begin at 1 p.m. with a commemorative service marking both Memorial Day and America\u2019s upcoming 250th anniversary. The event includes remarks, a wreath-laying ceremony, and participation from the American Legion Post 494 Honor Guard. A parade will follow at 2 p.m., traveling through Main Street to St. John Cemetery, where a 21-gun salute and the playing of \u201cTaps\u201d will take place.<\/p>\n
At 2 p.m., multiple ceremonies will occur simultaneously across the area. In Erie, the Veterans Memorial Park ceremony at State Street and Glenwood Park Avenue will feature the National Anthem, bagpipes, a color guard, and rifle volleys. In Lawrence Park, another Memorial Day event will take place at the municipal building, providing residents with an additional opportunity to honor fallen service members.<\/p>\n
Later in the day, celebrations continue with live music at Oliver\u2019s Beer Garden. Beginning at 4 p.m., Key West Express will perform during a Memorial Day gathering.<\/p>\n
Looking Ahead<\/p>\n
The weekend\u2019s tributes continue beyond Memorial Day. On May 31, families can visit the expERIEnce Children\u2019s Museum from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. for hands-on activities, including creating a layered American flag art project.<\/p>\n