Memorial Day weekend is often seen as the unofficial start of summer, but more importantly, it is a time to pause and honor the brave men and women who gave their lives while serving in the United States Armed Forces. Communities across York County and the surrounding area will gather for parades, ceremonies, and tributes dedicated to remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Here are several meaningful and family-friendly Memorial Day events taking place throughout the area in 2026:
Dallastown Memorial Day Parade
Monday, May 25, 2026 | 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM
The annual Memorial Day Parade hosted by the Dallastown American Legion Post 605 will begin at 9:00 AM on East Main Street at Park Street. The parade will travel west along Main Street and conclude at Union Cemetery, where attendees can continue to honor and remember those who served our country.
Dillsburg Memorial Day Ceremony
Saturday, May 23, 2026 | 11:00 AM
The 2026 Dillsburg Memorial Day Ceremony will take place at Filey’s Cemetery, located at Christ Lutheran Church in Dillsburg. Community members are invited to gather in remembrance of the fallen and reflect on the sacrifices made by generations of servicemen and women.
East Prospect Borough Memorial Day Parade
Sunday, May 24, 2026 | 4:00 PM
Join the East Prospect community as they come together for the annual Memorial Day Parade honoring the courageous military members who fought to protect our freedoms and preserve our nation. The parade begins at 4:00 PM and serves as a heartfelt tribute to those who gave their lives in service to our country.
Etters Memorial Day Parade & Ceremony
Monday, May 25, 2026 | 10:00 AM
The Etters Memorial Day Parade will begin at Parkville Bible Church, 850 Whisler Road, at 10:00 AM and proceed to Paddletown St. Paul’s United Methodist Church. A memorial ceremony will immediately follow the parade.
Glen Rock Memorial Day Parade
Sunday, May 24, 2026 | 4:00 PM
The Glen Rock Memorial Day Parade take place May 24th beginning at 4:00 PM. The Parade will travel from Hanover Street to Manchester Street. Community members are encouraged to line the streets in remembrance of those who served and celebrate the official start of the summer season. Parking is available in municipal lots throughout the borough.
Glen Rock Memorial Day Ceremony
Monday, May 25, 2026 | 11:00 AM
The Glen Rock Memorial Day Ceremony will take place at Trinity UCC Cemetery on Hanover Street. In the event of rain, services will move indoors to the church. Following the ceremony, the public is invited to the Austin L. Grove Post 403 for refreshments and fellowship.
Hanover Memorial Day Parade & Observance
Monday, May 25, 2026 | 8:30 AM
Hanover’s Annual Memorial Day Parade and Observance will begin at 8:30 AM. The parade will form starting at 7:30 AM on Carlisle Street between Chestnut Street and Library Place before proceeding directly to Mount Olivet Cemetery, located at 725 Baltimore Street, Hanover.
The observance will include:
- Three volleys of rifle fire by the Allied Veterans Council Honor Guard
- A seven-round cannon salute by the 108th Field Artillery, Stryker Brigade Combat Team, Pennsylvania Army National Guard
- The playing of Taps by a bugler
This longstanding tradition offers a moving tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation.
Manchester/Mt. Wolf Memorial Day Parade
Monday, May 25 | 9:00 AM
The annual Manchester/Mt. Wolf Memorial Day Parade steps off Monday, May 25 at 9 a.m. beginning at Thornton Chevrolet in Manchester.
The parade travels down Main Street to Maple Street, stopping at Union Cemetery for a memorial service before continuing through town and ending at Mt. Wolf Community Park.
Following the parade, traditional bean soup will be available for pick up at the VFW Post located at 195 S. Main St. in Mt. Wolf. Sponsored by Veterans of Foreign Wars.
Memorial Day Murph
Monday, May 25, 2026 | 6:00 AM | Kid's Murph 11:00am
Strength United CrossFit in Hanover will host its annual Memorial Day Murph workout in honor of fallen service members. The event includes the traditional Murph workout along with a special kids’ event, giving families an opportunity to participate together while remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Memorial Day Cookout
Monday, May 25, 2026 | 10:00 AM
Lehigh’s Greenhouse & Farm in Hanover will host a free Memorial Day Cookout featuring food and drinks for the community. The family-friendly gathering offers residents a chance to connect and enjoy the holiday weekend together while honoring the spirit of Memorial Day.
New Freedom Memorial Day Service
Monday, May 25, 2026 | 11:00 AM
Join Veterans of Foreign Wars for a Memorial Day Service at New Freedom Veterans Park (16700 Veterans Drive, New Freedom).
The community is welcome to attend — please bring your lawn chairs.
Following the service, all are invited back to VFW Post 7012 at 123 W. Main St. for hot dogs and refreshments.
Red Lion Memorial Day Ceremony
Monday, May 25, 2026 | 11:00 AM
The Red Lion Memorial Day Ceremony will take place at Fairmount Park in Red Lion and is hosted by VFW Post 1446 and American Legion Post 543. Community members are invited to gather in remembrance and honor of the heroes who never came home.
Following the ceremony, attendees are invited to VFW Post 1446 as the organization celebrates 100 years of service to the community and veterans.
York County Department of Veterans Affairs Memorial Day Wreath-Laying Ceremony
Monday, May 25, 2026 | 11:00 AM
The York County Department of Veterans Affairs will host its annual wreath-laying ceremony at the Veterans Memorial Gold Star Healing and Peace Garden, located at 1000 Vander Avenue in York.
This year’s keynote speaker will be Master Sergeant William Kaemmer (Ret.), Executive Director of the Chapel of the Four Chaplains.
Memorial Day Gold Star Memorial 5K & Tour de Memorials
Monday, May 25, 2026 | 7:30 AM
This annual event offers participants several ways to honor fallen heroes through fitness and remembrance. Participants may choose from:
- A competitive 5K run
- A non-competitive 5K walk
- The 9-Mile “Tour de Memorials,” where participants can run, walk, or bike past every war memorial in York City
The event combines community, wellness, and remembrance in honor of those who served.
Flags for Heroes & Dedication Ceremony
Saturday, May 30, 2026 | 11:00 AM
The Southern York County Rotary and Lions Club invite the community to the annual Flags for Heroes display and dedication ceremony at New Freedom Green.
This patriotic display honors military members, first responders, and community heroes whose service and sacrifices continue to protect and strengthen our nation. Flags will remain on display following the dedication ceremony.
Click here for full details or to purchase a flag
As you enjoy the Memorial Day weekend, take time to remember the true meaning of the holiday and honor the brave individuals who gave their lives in service to the United States. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten.
