News & Media

National Memorial Day Observance: An Evening of Stories of Service

Memorial Amphitheater, Arlington, VA

Freedom 250 National Memorial Day Observance: An Evening of Stories and Service Lit by the glow of candlelight on the sacred grounds of Arlington National Cemetery, veterans, military families, and historians will bring powerful stories of service and selflessness to life. Paired with moving musical performances—including selections sung by Gretchen Wilson—this evening of remembrance will honor the Americans who paid the ultimate sacrifice. Join Freedom 250 on Monday, May 25, 2026, for the Freedom 250 National Memorial Day Observance: An Evening of Stories and Service at the Memorial Amphitheater at Arlington National Cemetery. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. ET, and the program begins at 8:30 p.m. ET. Held as part of America's 250th anniversary, this solemn, public, ticketed evening program will bring Americans together in remembrance of the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the United States. Set against the sacred grounds of Arlington, the candlelit program will feature storytelling, reflection, music, and patriotic tribute centered on themes of American grit, valor, and a life of service. Through personal and historically grounded narratives shared by veterans, historians, family members, and national security leaders, attendees will honor the lives and legacies of American heroes, including Medal of Honor recipient Captain Humbert "Rocky" Versace and U.S. Army Special Forces Captain Daniel W. Eggers. The evening will also include musical performances, featuring a special appearance by Grammy Award-winning country music artist Gretchen Wilson, whose music will help guide the program's moments of remembrance and reflection. This event will be a powerful national moment to honor the fallen, support military families, and reflect on the enduring cost of freedom. ## Event Details Date: Monday, May 25, 2026 Doors Open: 6:00 p.m. ET Program Begins: 8:30 p.m. ET Location: Memorial Amphitheater, Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia Program Theme: An Evening of Stories of Service Featured Elements: Candlelight tribute, storytelling, remembrance, reflection, and musical performances Special Appearance: Gretchen Wilson Honored Profiles: Captain Humbert "Rocky" Versace and Captain Daniel W. Eggers

The 158th National Memorial Day Observation

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National Memorial Day Parade

7th and Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC

Freedom 250 National Memorial Day Parade The National Memorial Day Parade marches down Constitution Avenue NW in Washington, DC, honoring the men and women who gave their lives in service to the United States. One of the nation's most iconic Memorial Day traditions, the parade brings together veterans, military units, marching bands, and patriotic floats in a moving tribute to America's fallen heroes. Join Freedom 250 in commemorating the 250th anniversary of American independence with this solemn and celebratory procession through the heart of the nation's capital. ## Event Details Date: Monday, May 25, 2026 Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. ET Location: 7th and Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC