Memorial Day Weekend Events, Los Angeles, CA

Celebrating Memorial Day has been a tradition since 1868; it was once called Decoration Day, but its purpose is still the same - to honor fallen soldiers and their families. In 1971, Memorial Day was declared a national holiday by the Congress. The symbolisms use to honor the soldiers include placing flags or flowers at memorial sites, hanging the American flag at half-mast until noon, and keeping silent for one minute at three o'clock, just to name a few. Because Memorial Day is a national holiday, which falls on a three-day weekend, there is no shortage on activities to do.

Memorial Day is observed on the last Monday in May, (May 31, 2010). Like with any holiday you can choose to celebrate it in a community observance setting, or use it as a fun day off.

Need ideas to celebrate Memorial Day Weekend? - Here's how.

Observance Side

Canoga Park Memorial Day Festival

Canoga Park has for many years hosted a Memorial Day Parade, however, this year Canoga Park/ West Hills Chamber of Commerce is hosting a free Memorial Day Festival to commemorate the U.S. men and women who died while in military service. This is a great way to show your local support. If you are interest in performing or hosting a booth at the event call the Chamber for a registration form.

When: May 31, 2010 10AM - 5PM

Where: Owensmouth and Sherman Way.

Info: Visit website.

Cost: Free

Forest Lawn

With various locations to choose from, the Forest Lawn program and event is a special way to gather with the whole family to celebrate Memorial Day. Entertainment includes patriotic musical tributes.

When: May 31, 2010 at 10AM

Where: Various locations throughout Los Angeles, Co.

Info: Visit website

Cost: Free program and parking

The Montrose-Verdugo City

You can attend a Memorial Day Tribute for a ceremony of remembrance in an intimate setting.

When: May 31, 2010 8AM to 9AM.

Where: At the Vietnam War Memorial/Montrose Shopping Park

Info: Visit website

Cost: Free

Fun Side

UCLA JazzReggae Festival

This 24th annual Jazz /Reggae festival is a two day event that brings out various top and underground artists to perform in an outdoor setting. Headliners include Q-Tip, Raphael Saadiq, Nas, and Damian "Jr. Gong" Marley. The festival also includes various activities for people to participate in, and will have an art display.

When: May 30- May 31, 2010

Where: UCLA's Intramural Field

Info: Visit website.

Cost: Ticket packages vary $26-$70. Discount for pre-sale.

Garden Grove Strawberry Festival
More than just fruit. At this festival there will be music, carnival rides, contests, and a parade. Attendees: Roger Williams (pianist), Vince Johnson (The Four Freshman), Peggy McCay (Days of Our Lives) Kate Linder (The Young and the Restless), actors from Hannah Montana: The Movie, and more.

When: May 28-31, 2010 Friday 1PM to 10PM, Weekend 10AM to 10PM, Monday 10AM to 9PM.

Where: Village Green, between Euclid and Main Street Streets, downtown Garden Grove, CA.

Info: Visit website

Cost: Admission free. Carnival rides vary.

Cajun Creole Music Festival

Simi Valley Cajun Festival is an annual event hosted by the Simi Sunrise Rotary; all proceeds from the event go to various charities. The festival will have food, performers, and a carnival.

When: May 29 - May 30, 2010, 10:30AM to 8PM.

Where: Rancho Santa Susana Community Park Simi Valley, California.

Info: Visit website.Cost: Adult $18.00, children $15.00. Children under 5 are free. Rides in the children's area have no additional cost.