Memorial Day weekend near Edison means sunshine, BBQs, and an extra day off with your favorite people. Whether you're hunting for kid-friendly events, outdoor adventures, or just an excuse to get out of the house — we've got you covered.
And while you're enjoying the fun, it's also a perfect time to pause and reflect on why this day exists: To honor the brave men and women who gave their lives for our country.
Below, you'll find the best family events, activities, and meaningful ways to spend Memorial Day weekend near Edison.
Family-Friendly Memorial Day Weekend Events near Edison
Looking for Memorial Day weekend plans in Edison, Highland Park, and Metuchen? Here are events to celebrate Memorial Day for families near Edison.
- Armed Forces Day at Elmwood Cemetery May 17
- Armed Forces Day Celebration May 17
- Colonial Cemetery Spring Cleanup May 18
- Traveling Vietnam Memorial Wall and American Tribute May 23
- Edison Memorial Day Parade May 24
- Rolling Thunder Ceremony May 24
- Open Swim at Five Star Swim School May 25
- Memorial Day Parade Metuchen May 26
- Highland Park Memorial Day Parade May 26
- 46th Annual Memorial Day 5K Run/Walk May 26
Plan your next adventure around these can't-miss events happening in New Jersey Memorial Day Weekend. This list features exciting fairs and festivals happening within a 2-hour drive that are not tied to Memorial Day.
- EarthVibes Festival - Farmingdale, NJ
- Jersey Shore Food Truck Multi-Day Festival - Oceanport, NJ
- New Jersey Renaissance Multi-Day Faire - Columbus, NJ
- Riddlesbrood Spring Multi-Day Festival - Absecon, NJ
- Wildwoods International Kite Multi-day Festival - Wildwood, NJ
- Woodbridge Center Multi-Day Carnival - Woodbridge, NJ
Click here to see our full calendar.
Have a Memorial Day event near Edison to add? Submit it to our calendar here!
A Moment to Remember: What Memorial Day Is All About
While this is a weekend that can be packed with fun, it’s also a time for families to reflect on why this holiday holds meaning.
Here are three simple ideas you can do as a family to mark the day that honors those who died serving in the U.S. military.
- Observe a moment of silence at 3 p.m. on Memorial Day — a tradition called the National Moment of Remembrance.
- Visit a veteran's memorial or cemetery to pay respects.
- Display a flag at home or help your child make a red poppy craft — a symbol of remembrance after WWI.
- 👉🏽 Get more ideas here!
Just one small act of gratitude can leave a lasting impression on your kids.
Easy Weekend Fun Ideas for Families
Looking for at-home fun? Here are five ideas on how to mark the weekend at home:
- Backyard BBQ + sprinklers = Instant summer joy
- Family hike or nature walk with a scavenger hunt
- Red, white, and blue bike parade around the block
- Chalk your sidewalk with patriotic messages
- Craft an American flag pin with safety pins and beads. Get directions here!
 JannHuizenga | Canva |
Quick Memorial Day Facts to Share with Kids
- Memorial Day began in 1868 as Decoration Day after the Civil War.
- It became a federal holiday in 1971, always on the last Monday in May.
- Volunteers at Arlington National Cemetery place over 400,000 flags each year.
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