Memorial Day is a time to pause, reflect, and honor the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. In Santa Cruz, there are meaningful ways to observe the day — whether by gathering with others or taking a quiet moment of remembrance.
Many communities host Memorial Day ceremonies, parades, or remembrance events to bring people together in honor of those who served.
Just outside Santa Cruz, the nearby community of Felton hosts one of the area’s most established Memorial Day events. The annual “Felton Remembers” parade typically kicks off around 10 a.m. along Highway 9 before continuing to Covered Bridge Park, where the day carries on with a community festival featuring food, music and family-friendly activities honoring those who served. For 2026 details, including any timing updates or participation info, check local event pages closer to the holiday.
Visiting a local memorial or cemetery is a simple but meaningful way to pay respects. In the Santa Cruz area, residents may choose to spend time at places like Santa Cruz Memorial Park or Oakwood Memorial Park, both of which serve as resting places for members of the community, including veterans. Bringing flowers, placing flags or taking a quiet moment to reflect can be a powerful way to honor those who lost their lives in service.
Memorial Day can also be a time to support those who continue to carry the impact of military service. In Santa Cruz County, organizations like Santa Cruz County Vet Center work to provide housing assistance, case management and essential support services for veterans facing homelessness, financial hardship or challenges transitioning to civilian life.
You can also support national organizations such as the Wounded Warrior Project, the Fisher House Foundation or Disabled American Veterans.
At 3 p.m. local time on Memorial Day, people across the country pause for the National Moment of Remembrance. Whether you’re at home, with family or out in the community, taking a minute to reflect is a simple but powerful way to honor those who gave their lives in service.
Taking time to learn more about Memorial Day can add deeper meaning to the day. Originally known as Decoration Day, the holiday began after the Civil War as a way to honor fallen soldiers and has since evolved into a national day of remembrance for all who died in military service.
However you choose to spend the day, Memorial Day is ultimately about remembering and honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
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