Memorial Day is a federally recognized holiday in the U.S., designated as a time to honor the brave men and women who lost their lives while serving our country. The holiday is always observed on the last Monday of May, when most schools and offices are closed.
This three-day weekend is also seen as the unofficial start of summer. There are plenty of things to do on Memorial Day Weekend in Columbus, whether you seek opportunities to honor our nation's heroes or spend quality time with the family.
National Veterans Memorial and Museum
Columbus is proud to have the incredible National Veterans Memorial and Museum (NVMM) in our community, whose sole mission is to honor all veterans and their families, from all eras of conflict and branches of service.
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Memorial Day Remembrance Ceremony | Monday, May 25: Join NVMM in reflection at 10 am to hear from keynote speaker Ryan Manion. Ryan Manion is the CEO of the Travis Manion Foundation, dedicated to empowering Veterans and families of fallen heroes to develop character in future generations. Register to attend.
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Dedicate a Flag
Members of the community are invited to dedicate a flag for $25, to help transform the lawns at National Veterans Memorial and Museum and COSI (Center of Science and Industry) during the Memorial Day commemorations into a magnificent display of red, white, and blue.
Memorial Day Weekend Family Activities in Columbus
Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial start of summer, and there are plenty of opportunities to get outside with friends and family.
Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. Source: Experience Columbus.
Zoombezi Bay & Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
Zoombezi Bay officially opens for the season on May 22 and there are so many things to look forward to this year, including ZOOMpass bands and adults-only premium loungers, as well as the return of favorites like basketball activities at Baboon Lagoon and Sand Dollar Shores, the Baboon Lagoon tipping bucket and wave pool waves. Get tickets.
The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is home to 10,000 animals, representing 600 species. Don't miss North America Trek, an 8-acre region, with habitats for Mexican Wolves, Black Bears, Trumpeter Swans and more. Get tickets.
Bicentennial Park Fountains. Source: Downtown Columbus Inc.
Make a Splash at Bicentennial Park at Fountain Fest
The Bicentennial Park fountain will reopen on Saturday, May 23. Celebrate its return by attending Fountain Fest, with food trucks, live music and free ice cream. Learn more.
Picnicking on the Scioto Mile. Source: Experience Columbus.
Picnic in the Park
Step out of the kitchen and treat yourself and your family to a picnic at one of these picturesque spots. Columbus has so many great options for picnics, like a charcuterie kit from Foris Extraordinary Meats or literally anything from Ray Ray's Hog Pit. Many places are closed for Memorial Day to give their staff a much-needed rest, so be sure to call ahead!
Enjoy the Warm Weather on the Scioto Mile
The Scioto Mile is one of Columbus' most scenic parks, featuring unparalleled views of the city skyline. Memorial Day Weekend is the perfect time to take in the sights. Read our Top Things to do on The Scioto Mile for all the inspiration you need and more.
Utica Ice Cream Festival. Source: Velvet Ice Cream Company.
Utica Ice Cream Festival
In Columbus, we all scream for ice cream. That's why the annual Utica Ice Cream Festival is a staple event each Memorial Day Weekend. Head to Velvet Ice Cream Company at Ye Olde Mill May 23-25 to join in the fun!
Browse a Local Farmers Market
Memorial Day Weekend marks the return of your favorite summer farmers' markets. Whether you're looking for fresh produce or picking up a boutique for your family BBQ, our Columbus area farmers markets are the perfect place to spend your Memorial Day Weekend mornings.
