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5 Memorial Day celebrations around the Valley

Posted at 4:39 PM, May 24, 2016
and last updated 2016-05-30 09:08:04-04

Memorial Day (or Decoration Day as it was called in 1868) is a day to remember those service men and women who've died and decorate their graves either with flags or flowers.

Did you know that there is a lot of discussion about where Memorial Day got its start? President Lyndon Johnson declared Waterloo, N.Y. has the birthplace for Memorial Day in 1966.

In Phoenix, there are at least five dedications and ceremonies planned.

In Chandler, this year's Memorial Day includes the dedication of its "Field of Honor" Veterans Memorial.

Below are five Memorial Day celebrations around the Valley: 

 

Avondale Memorial Day Event (May 25)
Where: Avondale City Hall Amphitheater, 11465 W. Civic Center Drive, Avondale
Time: 7 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Admission: Free

The event will have speeches, music, special tributes and a candlelight vigil.

 

Chandler Field of Honor Veterans Memorial dedication (May 30)
Where: Northeast corn of Chandler Heights and Lindsay Road
Time: Dedication will take place at 8 a.m.
Admission: Free

Mayor Jay Tibshraeny will deliver remarks at the dedication. Music will be provided by the Chandler Fire Health & Medical Department Pipes & Drums Corps. and the Posting of the Colors will be performed by the Gila River Pee Posh Veterans Association.

 

Gilbert Historical Museum Day Event (May 30)
Where: Gilbert Historical Museum, 10 S. Gilbert Road
Time: 9 a.m. – ceremony. Museum will then open 10 a.m. – noon.
Admission: Free
** It’s also the final day of the Art of Quilting display.

There will be a flag and wreath ceremony and a performance from the Ahwatukee Foothills concert band. Make sure to bring a lawn chair. Canned food donations will be collected to benefit Gilbert Feeding Families. After the ceremony, the museum will be open from 10 a.m. until noon.

 

Pioneer Memorial Day 2016 event (May 30)
Where: Pioneer & Military Memorial Park (14th Avenue and Jefferson)
Time: 9 a.m.
Admission: Free

There will be historical organizations at the event. Guests will be able to tour the 1987 Smurthwaite House and take self-guided tours of historic cemeteries.

 

Star Spangled Celebration (May 27)
Where: Cesar Chavez Park
Time: 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Admission: Free

The Star Spangled Celebration honors fallen police, firefighters and veterans. There will be a floating candle ceremony, a fireworks display, safety activities for children, including a bike rodeo and free helmets.