Memorial Day is a great opportunity to spend time with family and friends, taking time to celebrate and remember the men and women who have given the last full measure of devotion for our great country. Tampa-area families that are looking forward to the Memorial Day Weekend will find no shortage of fun, family-friendly, and patriotic events in the area. Find the perfect way to celebrate Memorial Day this year with our list of favorite 2026 Memorial Day events, ceremonies, and activities in Tampa, FL created by Brandon Ford.
Things To Do for Memorial Day Weekend 2026 in the Tampa Area
Memorial Day Weekend activities include everything from traditional remembrance ceremonies to weekend bar crawls, pool parties, and 5K races. No matter what you and your family like to do to celebrate Memorial Day, the Tampa, Clearwater, and St. Petersburg provides families with a broad range of options to choose from.
Do not miss out on the Memorial Day fun this year in the Tampa area.
Hillsborough County 29th Annual Memorial Day Observance Ceremony
WHEN: Sunday, May 24 at 10 a.m.
WHERE: Veterans Memorial Park – 3602 North US Hwy 301 Tampa, FL 33619
The Hillsborough County 29th Annual Memorial Day Observance Ceremony at Veterans Memorial Mark is a hallmark of this holiday for many families in the Tampa area. This year, the annual ceremony will feature special guests that include American Gold Star Mothers, U.S. Army Major General John Gronski (Retired), Command Chief Master Sergeant Christopher Ottenwess of the 6th Air Refueling Wing, and more guests in a celebration of life for those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. The ceremony will be followed by refreshments.
The American Legion U.S.S. Tampa Memorial Day Service
WHEN: Monday, May 25 at 11 a.m.
WHERE: American Legion Post 5 – 3801 W. Kennedy Blvd. Tampa, FL 33609
This year will mark the 104th Annual Memorial Day Ceremony to Fallen Heroes in Tampa presented by the American Legion U.S.S. Tampa Post 5. The annual ceremony brings the community together to honor our heroes with a special flag placement around the cemetery prior to the service and special guest speakers James Blejski, Director of Intelligence with USSOCOM and State Representative Susan Valdes. The event will be preceded by a wreath laying ceremony between 10 a.m. and 10:45 a.m.
Clearwater Honor Fest
WHEN: Monday, May 25 at 6 p.m.
WHERE: Crest Lake Park – 201 S. Glenwood Ave. Clearwater, FL 33755
Families in the Clearwater area can honor the men and women who fought and died for our country this year at the annual Clearwater Honor Fest. The annual service will include a remembrance ceremony with special keynote speakers, special guest Navy Commander Dan O’Shea, recognition of the community, a closing tribute, and more. This annual event brings the community together to celebrate Memorial Day and our heroes.
Yacht Starship Rock the Bay Dinner Dance Party
WHEN: Saturday, May 23
WHERE: Yacht Starship – 603 Channelside Dr. Tampa, FL
Add a little fun and excitement to your Memorial Day Weekend this year and make reservations for the Yacht Starship Rock the Bay Dinner Dance Party. The 2-hour cruise will feature scenic views of Tampa Bay, live DJ music, and a FREE house bar at sea. The Dinner Dance Party option includes a buffet dinner and boarding photos with your ticket purchase — the perfect Memorial Day Weekend date night.
Summer Nights at Busch Gardens Tampa
WHEN: May 22 – August 9
WHERE: Busch Gardens Tampa – 10165 McKinley Dr. Tampa, FL 33612
Memorial Day Weekend marks the start of Summer Nights at Busch Gardens Tampa. The extended summer hours make more time for family fun at Busch Gardens this time of the year and promise fun for all ages with thrill rides and shows everywhere you look. Highlights of this festive event include the Rhythm of Nature Ice Show, the Boom Box Dance Party in Stanleyville, and Beach Bash in Gwazi Plaza.
Are you looking for ways to celebrate the Memorial Day Weekend and remember our fallen heroes? This list of favorite 2026 Memorial Day events, ceremonies, and activities in Tampa, FL has got it all for you and your family — from remembrance ceremonies to dance parties.
Apply for credit approval today at Brandon Ford and get behind the wheel of a brand-new 2026 Ford Bronco in Tampa!