Events Held in Muskegon During the Memorial Day Weekend

Memorial Day is a federal (United States) holiday created to honor and remember veterans and those who gave their lives for the protection and preservation of our country's freedom. It is traditionally held on the last Monday in May, and is often marked by parades, festivals and ceremonial services.

The Lost Boat Ceremony

One special event being held during the Memorial Day weekend is the Lost Boat Ceremony. Taking place on Sunday, 5/29 at the Great Lakes Navel Museum, the Lost Boat Ceremony is an annual event honoring submarine veterans. With band music, war planes and ceremonial bells, this is sure to be a well-attended and emotional service. Great Lakes Naval Museum is located near Pere Marquette Beach along the Channel in the Bluffton area of Muskegon. Services will begin at 11 a.m.

Fruitport Old Fashioned Days and Parade

The lovely community of Fruitport will hold both a festival and parade during the Memorial Day week and weekend. Known as Fruitport Old Fashioned Days, this year's festival will begin on Wednesday, 5/25 and continue through Monday, 5/30. Activities will include carnival rides, fireworks, a petting zoo and 5K/10K run. Festival admission is $15 per day, which includes a wrist band for unlimited riding. Fruitport Old Fashioned Days will conclude with a Memorial Day parade commencing at noon. Equestrians, floats, classic cars and school bands will fill the streets of Fruitport . This year's route begins and ends at Fruitport Middle School. Both the festival and parade are sponsored by the Fruitport Lions Club.

The Blessing of the Boats

Housed on the shores of Lake Michigan, Muskegon is a city known for water fun and activities. On Sunday, 5/29, many will board the Port City Princess for a special brunch and blessing of the boats. As the Port City Princess travels along Lake Michigan and Muskegon Lake, boaters will gather around to receive a priestly blessing. The cruise and brunch is a fundraiser benefiting St. Paul's Episcopal Church in downtown Muskegon. Tickets are $25 for adults, $15 for youth and $60 for families (up to four people, two adults and two children only). This year's menu will include champagne, fruit, eggs, rolls and a gourmet chicken dish. Tickets are available through the church or Port City Princess Cruises.

Other planned activities include Memorial Day Parades in downtown Muskegon, Grand Haven and the Lakeside neighborhood of Muskegon.