Memorial Day Weekend in Miami

Memorial Day is a public holiday celebrated every year on the last Monday in May in honor of the men and women who have died while serving our country. This year it will be on Monday May 31, 2021.

Federal government offices and schools are closed on Memorial Day.

You can expect the following to be open and closed on Monday:

On this day, ceremonies to honor the men and women in the U.S. Armed Forces who gave their lives to protect the nation's freedoms are normally held throughout South Florida.

Local Memorial Day ceremonies and parades take place in many of our cities. We will update any info on this as it becomes available.

• City of North Miami Beach Memorial Day Service - at Corporal Howard B. Hinson Park For Fallen War Heroes at 160 Street and NE 14 Street at 10:00 am. This year's ceremony will begin with a gun volley delivered by the North Miami Beach Police Department Honor Guard Unit followed by the march of colors led by the St Andrew's Pipe Band of Miami
• City of Pembroke Pines Memorial Day Ceremony - Donnith Fletcher Park at 7900 Johnson Street at 10:00 am, event will also be live streamed on the City's Instagram and Facebook platforms
• Davie Memorial Day Ceremony & Parade - Parade begins at 10:15 a.m. and will proceed east on Orange Drive beginning at the Davie Fire Administration at 6905 Orange Drive ending at the Bergeron Rodeo Grounds at 4271 Davie Road. Following the parade, a Memorial Ceremony will take place at the Rodeo Arena at approx 11:00 am
• City of Doral Memorial Day Remembrance Wreath Display at Veterans Park at 10190 NW 33rd Street
• City of Coral Gables Memorial Day Remembrance Ceremony featuring the Honor Guard's Changing of the Colors, at Coral Gables War Memorial Youth Center at 405 University Drive at 9:00 am
• Miami Chamber of Commerce Memorial Day Remembrance Ceremony a wreath-laying ceremony featuring a performance by the Singing Miamians chorus, a color guard parade, and special remarks by Rear Admiral Collin P. Green - 11:00 am at Woodlawn Park Cemetery at 3260 SW Eighth St., Miami.

The highlight celebration for Memorial Day in South Florida, the National Salute to America's Heroes and the stunning Air and Sea Show is scheduled to go on, and will be taking place in the sands of South Beach once again this Memorial Day Weekend, Saturday and Sunday May 29 - 30, 2021.

Also most of our local attractions have started to reopen and with Memorial Day signaling the "unofficial" start of the summer vacation season, many will also be paying tribute to our heroes.

Here's what's happening this Memorial Day Weekend in Miami:

2021 Memorial Day Weekend Highlights

• National Salute To America's Heroes: Miami Beach Air & Sea Show - Saturday and Sunday May 29 - 30, 2021
• City of Ft. Lauderdale Memorial Day Great American Beach Party - Saturday, May 29, 2021
• Salute To Heroes Week at Miami Seaquarium - May 24 - 31, 2021
• Best of the Best Memorial Day Music Fest at Bayfront Park - May 30, 2021
• Sounds and Stripes: Memorial Day at PAMM - Monday May 31, 2021
• Flamingo Gardens Memorial Day Big Bugs Opening Weekend - May 29 - 31, 2021
• Urban Beach Week 2021 - May 28 - 31, 2021
• More outdoor fun stuff to do this Memorial Day Weekend: activities, tours, attractions that are OPEN

Memorial Day Weekend: Miami Beach Air & Sea Show

There is no better time to pay tribute to our military, first responders and those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country than Memorial Day Weekend.

In this spirit, a fantastic event as part of the National Salute to America's Heroes initiative will take place on our sandy shores with all five branches of the military represented: The Army, the Navy, the Air Force, the Marines and the Coast Guard as well as our police, firefighters and first responder agencies.

This is the highlight event of the weekend and one you should not miss right on the sands of Miami Beach...

When? Saturday and Sunday May 29 - 30, 2021
Where? Along the shores of South Beach, main event site and best viewing for the Air and Sea Show is between 11th and 15th Street.
Public viewing areas are from 1st to 10th streets and 13th to 23rd Streets. See event site map here.
There will be many designated Park and Ride locations in and around the City of Miami where you can leave your car and ride a free shuttle to the event. Do not try to park in Miami Beach this weekend!
How Much? FREE from the public viewing areas on the beach on the North and South ends of the main event site. Tickets available for hospitality chalets, family seating area, VIP clubs and hotels packages, see below.

The Air & Sea Show:

Jets will be flying overhead as powerboats zip along the shore. This two-day spectacular event will feature civilian aerobatic acts, offshore powerboat racing demonstrations, extreme water sports and more, all on the beautiful shores of Miami Beach.

• Sea Events including Waterski, wakeboard, jetski, stunt kite, hang gliders, hover boards and jet surf board demonstrations, offshore powerboat racing...
• U.S. Marine Corps Beach Invasion
• Air Events including fly byes, precision exercises and demos including rescue demos, special ops, the U.S. Navy Leap Frogs Parachute Team and many, many, MANY more.

When? Sea Events: 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Air Events: 12:00 pm - 4:30 pm

Where? Along the beach, best viewing for the Air and Sea Show is ON THE BEACH between 11th and 14th Street. There are FREE public viewing areas from 1st to 10th streets and 13th to 23rd Streets. See event site map here.
The Air Show landing zone is between 10th and 11th Streets.

Watching from a boat: Allowed but observe the safety zone where No vessel or person will be permitted to enter without obtaining permission from the Captain of the Port Miami or a designated representative. The zone is to be enforced from 8:30 a.m. on Friday through 5:00 p.m. on Sunday and consists of the 0.5 mile stretch of waters of the Atlantic Ocean from Collins Park to South Pointe.

Paid options: There are 3 Preferred Viewing Areas between 11th and 13th Streets, entrance from the north on 13th Street:

• The Beach Club - large screen viewing, restrooms and concessions - $30 single day $55 both days
• The Umbrella Club - reserved private area 6-ticket packages $300 single day $550 both days
• The Cabana Club - own fenced private cabana with an extended patio area, refreshments 10-ticket packages $2,500 single day $5,000 both days

And of course from any of the hotels along Ocean Drive which will have front row views and will likely be offering packages for the weekend. Needless to say, you need to book way ahead of time.

Action Zone & Display Village:

This is where you can see our military technology up close and personal along with a variety of interactive displays, high tech demonstrations, plus merchandise and food vendors. There will be meet-and-greets with servicemen and women.

This year's Action Zone features a one-of-a-kind action-packed motocross performance by Keith Sayer's KSFMX Freestyle Motocross demo team. There is no shortage of engaging activities for fans in the Monster Energy Action Zone.

When? 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Where? Along Ocean Drive Between 11th and 14th Streets
How Much? FREE
More Info www.usasalute.com/action-zone/

More Info

• Official Site: http://usasalute.com
• Live broadcast on NewsRadio 610 WIOD
• Livestream via the iHeartRadio App
• USA Salute FB Page
• Event site map, entrances, lavatories

Practical Tips

• Plan ahead, get there early, have an exit plan. The city will be using an evening traffic loop on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights during the holiday weekend. The loop directs eastbound traffic on 5th Street to travel northbound on Collins Avenue to 17th Street. From there, traffic is directed westbound to Washington Avenue, then southbound on Washington Avenue to 5th Street.
• Starting Friday, May 28 at 7:00 pm, a flat parking rate of $20 per vehicle will be imposed at all city parking garages in the Art Deco Cultural District
• Capacity limits will be in effect on various segments of the beach to protect the health, safety and public welfare. Additional access will be denied once capacity limits are reached.
• Bring sun protection, beach chairs, water, cameras and phones
• DO NOT bring glass and styrofoam, straws, drones, lasers, helium balloons, coolers, inflatable devices, tents, tables and similar structures

Where to Stay for Memorial Day? Top Hotel Choices

From the celebrations to pay tribute to our Service Men and Women including a fantastic Air and Sea Show right from the sands of South Beach, live concerts, fireworks and parades, to the Hip Hop whirlwind of Urban Beach Week, this is one busy weekend...

Where the best place to stay in Miami for Memorial Day Weekend will depend much on what your preferences are, from heavy partying to a weekend of relaxation.

Hotels on Ocean Drive will be ground zero with all of the festivities literally in your backyard and front row seats for the fantastic air show. But there are also many options within easy walk and further away from the mayhem. If traveling with family or would like a quieter scene, choose a place away from the melee of South Beach.

Here are some top hotel options for Memorial Day Weekend in Miami

Booking.com

City of Ft. Lauderdale Memorial Day Great American Beach Party

A full day of exciting activities and entertainment for the entire family, this annual event honors our military members who died to keep us free as well as our local citizens who have worked to improve the community of Fort Lauderdale.

The celebrations kick off on the beach with a sand sculpting demonstration and plenty of kids activities, beach games, a native village, face painting, arts & crafts, and even Ponies and a Petting Zoo!

A farmer's market will be set up on the Promenade, and a Classic Car Show takes center stage on Las Olas between A1A and Seabreeze Blvd.

The live entertainment starts at noon atthe Oceanside Park Stage featuring Pitbull of Blues, Big Harvest and Lonestar.

A military tribute then takes place at 2:00 p.m. to honor the men and women who serve our country in the United States Armed Forces. The tribute will be highlighted by a precision free-fall parachute jump and tribute to the U.S. Armed Forces by the SOCOM Para-Commandos. In an extraordinary display of timing, accuracy, and precision maneuvering, the Para-Commandos will skydive from 12,500 feet over the Atlantic Ocean and land on targets positioned in the sand at Las Olas Boulevard and A1A.

When? Saturday May 29, 2021 - 11:30 am to 6:30 pm
Where? Las Olas Oceanside Park at 3000 East Las Olas Blvd
How Much? FREE

More Info: The Great American Beach Party

Salute To Heroes Week at Miami Seaquarium

Salute to Heroes Week offers all Veterans, Military, Police, Fire and EMT personnel free admission to Miami Seaquarium from May 24 - 31, 2021.

A valid military or first responder photo I.D. is required and must be presented at the ticket counter.

Miami Seaquarium will admit first responders, including sworn officers, civilian employees and support staff from all city and county fire and law enforcement organizations, plus the following: Florida Highway Patrol; Broward County Sheriff Office; District Attorney; correctional facilities (prisons); U.S. Marshals; ATF (Alcohol, Tobacco ∓ Firearms); the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); International Border Patrol; Immigration Naturalization Service (INS); Homeland Security which includes: International Border Patrol, Citizenship & Immigration, Immigration Customs Enforcement, Secret Service, FEMA,TSA; ambulance company EMTs; and reserve or volunteer fire, and law enforcement members with valid ID.

When? May 24 - 31, 2021
Where? Miami Seaquarium
How Much? Regular park admission weekday Adults $49.99, Children (3-9) $39.99, plus taxes, higher on Weekends. You can buy discount tickets online at Klook.com.

More Info: Salute To Heroes at Miami Seaquarium

Best of the Best Memorial Day Music Fest

On its 15th year, the largest reggae/caribbean music festival in North America returns to the striking landscapes of Bayfront Park and the Miami Beach skyline on Memorial Day Weekend with every intention of making history again!

Best of the Best has been built to legendary status by bringing crowds to their feet with classic artist performances from Buju Banton, Wayne Wonder, Super Cat, Sizzla, Mavado, Elephant Man, Akon, Beenie Man, Nicki Minaj, T-Pain, Bounty Killer, Gyptian, DJ Khaled, Diddy, Wyclef Jean, Rick Ross, Stephen & Damien Marley, Junior Reid, and Capleton just to name a few.

No outside food, beverages, or alcohol will be allowed. However, it is suggested that attendees bring blankets or folding chairs to sit on. Be advised, there is no re-entry into the concert so be sure that you don't leave anything in your vehicle that you may need during the concert.

When? May 30, 2021 - 2:00 pm 'til midnight
Where? Bayfront Park, Downtown Miami
How Much? Discounts for early online purchases. General Admission $55, children 12 and under FREE, VIP $150+ for a private viewing area, express entry, private air conditioned bathrooms, front stage access, and an open bar, VVIP $499+ front and back stage access, premium open bar

More Info and tickets: http://bestofthebestconcert.com/

Sounds and Stripes: Memorial Day at PAMM

Perez Art Museum Miami honors our heroes with a special Memorial Day Celebration on the terrace overlooking Biscayne Bay.

Enjoy live entertainment by OIGO, free art-making kits for kids, and tasty BBQ specials at Verde Restaurant and Bar for purchase.

Admission to the museum is free for all active duty military personnel, veterans and their families.

When? Monday May 31, 2021 Memorial Day celebration from 1:00 - 4:00 pm, Museum opens 11:00 am to 6:00 pm
Where? Perez Art Museum at 1103 Biscayne Blvd., Miami
How Much? Free entry to the terrace, food available for purchase. Museum gallery admission: $16 for adults, Children and Youth (7-18) $12, Seniors +62 $12. Free for PAMM members, active duty military personnel, veterans, family members.

More Info: Memorial Day at PAMM

Flamingo Gardens Memorial Day Big Bugs Opening Weekend

Gigantic bugs are invading Flamingo Gardens this Memorial Weekend! Join Flamingo Gardens for the opening of David Rogers' Big Bugs exhibit of giant insect sculptures. Visitors of all ages will enjoy these 10 larger-than-life sculptures created from willow limbs, twigs, and branches by artist David Rogers, nestled among the pathways through the Gardens.

Highlights of the exhibit include a 10' tall Daddy Long Legs and a 17' long Praying Mantis! Inside the Gallery you will discover some of the fascinating insects of South Florida and the Everglades, including live specimens!

When? Sat - Mon May 29 - 31, 2021 - 9:30 am to 4:00 pm
Where? Flamingo Gardens at 3750 South Flamingo Road, Davie, FL 33330
How Much? Adults $21.95 Children (3 - 11) $15.95 Save when you book online. Discounts for Seniors, Armed Services, College Students. Please note that wildlife shows are unavailable due to social distancing requirements. Narrated tram tours and Wray Home Museum tours are now available with limited numbers due to social distancing requirements.
More Info and tickets: Flamingo Gardens Memorial Day Big Bugs Opening Weekend

Urban Beach Week

Urban Beach Week which is also known as Black Beach Week started back in the 1990's as a small urban fashion show. It was actually called Urban Fashion Week in the beginning.

Since then, the event has gradually grown to this massive outdoor party event in South Beach over Memorial Day Weekend.

This is the ultimate beach party for the Hip Hop culture that attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors. Yes, that's right, hundreds of thousands over the long weekend.

What is it? This is not an officially sponsored event by the city, instead, it's a series of events... concerts, parties, pool parties, contests, fashion shows, celebrity pool parties... all organized by various private venues throughout South Beach, many just pop up and spread out on social media.

As you can expect, streets are overflowing and plenty of alcohol is consumed. Expect street closures and re-routed traffic patterns. Needless to say, this is NOT a family event. If you are heading over please act responsibly and observe the special regulations in effect as there will be zero tolerance for violations. This year certain items are banned on the beach including large flotation devices, coolers and tents and amplified music.

When? May 28 - 31, 2021
Where? Throughout South Beach
How Much? This is an outdoor event, no "admission" per se.
More Info: www.blackbeachweek.com

Activities, Tours, Attractions that are OPEN

It's time to get out! Here's a list of things to do while maintaining social distancing measures. They have reopened and can be booked now. Make a reservation as many of the tours and activities are running on limited capacities. You can book with confidence as there is a free cancellation policy for most of the activities listed here, if your plans change and you cancel up to 24 hours in advance you will receive a full refund.

• Marinas are open and the following operators are taking reservations for Biscayne Bay Cruises now:
  • Leaving from Sea Isle Marina: The Adrenaline Junkie Jet Boat Ride
  • Leaving from South Beach: Splashdown: Duck Tour of Miami and South Beach
  • Leaving from Bayside: Thriller: 45-Minute Sightseeing Speedboat Tour, and The Original Millionaire's Row Cruise

• Beaches and Parks are open, time to go for a swim, kayaking, jetskiing, parasailing...:
  • From Dinner Key Marina: 30- or 60-minute Jet Ski Rides on a brand new Sea Doo GTI 130, Parasailing, Flyboarding, Paddleboarding and Kayaking, Tubing.
  • At Hobie Beach (Rickenbacker Causeway): Windsurfing rentals, individual and group lessons available, Hobie Cat Sailing, Paddleboarding and Kayaking.
  • Crandon Park, Bill Sadowski Preserve, Matheson Hammock Park: Kayak Treks and Adventures.
  • At Oleta River State Park: Paddleboard and Kayak Rental, Standup Paddleboard Yoga Classes.
  • With pick up from your hotel: 3-hour Jet Ski Tour covering downtown Miami, Key Biscayne, and Brickell Key, Fisher Island, Star Island with a stop in Monument Island

• Snorkeling Boats have resumed operations in the Florida Keys and at Biscayne National Park and John Pennekamp State Park
• The Everglades are open! Except for Shark Valley which remains closed for visitor safety as a result of high water levels after both hurricane Eta and Iota.
• The following outifts are conducting Airboat and Eco Tours now:
  • Gator Park: Everglades National Park Airboat Tour and Wildlife Show
  • Everglades Safari Park: $23.60 Discount tickets at Klook.com, from Miami incl. transport: Half-Day Everglades Airboat Ride & Wildlife Show
  • Sawgrass Recreation Park: Private Tour for your group only, Night Tour (Wednesdays and Saturdays only)
  • Everglades Area Tours: Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Eco-Tour meet at Everglades Chamber of Commerce Welcome Center Hwy 41/Hwy 29 Everglades City
  • Here's more on Everglades Airboat Tours

• Segway Tours have reopened and they are a great way to discover the Art Deco District, Ocean Drive, Fisher Island... You see a lot more gliding around than on foot while enjoying the breathtaking views and some fresh air! These Segway Tours are running right now
• The Wynwood Arts District is open, come check out this fantastic open-air museum with its stunning street art. A fun way to see it is with the 1-Hour Street Art Tour by Golf Buggy.

• Lion Country Safari Drive-through Safari is OPEN
• Zoo Miami is OPEN, tickets must be purchased online, members and Summer Pass holders must also make a reservation for the day of their visit.
• The gardens at Vizcaya Museum and Gardens are OPEN
• The outdoor areas at the Deering Estate are OPEN and hikes and kayak rentals have resumed.
• Tidal Cove Water Park at the JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa is OPEN
• The Fairchild Tropical Botanic Gardens are OPEN

Most Popular Excursions

Book with confidence! Free cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund

Booking.com

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