Memorial Day weekend is almost here, and there’s no better place to soak up the sun, honor our heroes, and enjoy the start of summer than right here in Raleigh. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly events, local shopping deals, outdoor adventures, or spots to grab a bite and a brew, we’ve rounded up the best ways to celebrate while supporting local businesses. Check out our Memorial Day Guide for a weekend full of community, connection, and charm!
Remembrance and Reflection
Memorial Day Remembrance – A patriotic ceremony honoring fallen veterans of all wars and conflicts. Attendees are invited to visit the Freedom Tower Monument at the park and partake in complimentary refreshments before and after the ceremony. More Information
- When: Monday, May 26, 2025 | 2:30-3:30 p.m.
- Where: Veterans Freedom Park – 1517 N. Harrison Ave. Cary, NC 27513
Apex Memorial Day Ceremony – This annual Memorial Day ceremony honors and remembers U.S. military personnel who lost their lives while serving in the United States Armed Forces. This event typically features members of Apex public safety, Apex Town Council, and the Apex community sharing words and holding space for moments of reflection. More Info.
- When: Monday, May 26th, 2025 | 9:30 a.m.
- Where: 220 N Salem Street, Apex, NC 27502
Garner Veterans Memorial – This annual observance honors those who died while serving our country in the armed forces. Guided tours of the Garner Veterans Memorial will be conducted before the event and after its conclusion. The event is co-sponsored by Garner Veterans Advisory Committee. Attendees are encouraged to bring camping chairs for comfort. More Info.
- When: Monday, May 26th, 2025 | 9:30-10:30 a.m.
- Where: 921 Buffaloe Rd., Lake Benson Park, Garner, NC 27529
Historic Oakwood Cemetery Service – This Memorial Day service honors fallen men and women at the Historic Oakwood Cemetery. Chairs will be provided. Follow event signs to Field of Honor and park along the road. More Info.
- When: Monday, May 26th, 2025 | 4-5 p.m.
- Where: 701 Oakwood Ave, Raleigh, NC 27601
Hillcrest Cemetery – The Cary American Legion Post 67 and their guests in honoring those who served and protected our freedom. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs. More Info.
- When: Monday, May 26th, 2025 | 10 a.m.
- Where: Hillcrest Cemetery, 608 Page Street, Cary, NC 27511
Knightdale Veterans Memorial – Join the Town of Knightdale for their Memorial Day ceremony honoring fallen men and women at the Knightdale Veterans Memorial. More Info.
- When: Monday, May 26th, 2025 | 11 a.m.
- Where: 810 N. First Avenue, Knightdale, NC 27545
Grillmaster Essentials
Fire up the grill and keep it local! Whether you’re on the hunt for farm-fresh meats, small-batch sauces, or handcrafted BBQ essentials, Raleigh’s local businesses have everything you need to turn your backyard cookout into a flavor-packed feast. Skip the big box stores because your perfect grill setup is right around the corner!
Veteran Owned Businesses
This Memorial Day, honor those who’ve served by supporting veteran-owned businesses in our community. These local spots reflect the strength, service, and entrepreneurial spirit of the veterans behind them. Shopping with these businesses is more than a purchase – it’s a powerful way to show appreciation, fuel their success, and invest in a stronger, more connected Raleigh. Let’s shop with purpose and make this holiday truly meaningful.
**Is your business Veteran Owned? Email contactus@shoplocalraleigh.org to be included.**
Memorial Day Sales
- Beth’s Christmas: Save an extra 55% at checkout during their warehouse sale and stock up before it’s all gone! Discount applied at checkout, no code needed.
- Ella Collective has a tiered Memorial Day Sale in store and online through Monday, May 26th.
- Spend $200, get $30 off
- Spend $500, get $100 off
- Spend $800, get $200 off
- Extra 20% off all sale items
- Rose May Jewelry: Take 30% off everything on their website with code MEMDAY- plus, get a FREE gift on orders over $100.
- Ella’s Popcorn: Buy 2 bags from their classic line and get 1 of their signature flavor line for 30% off with code MDW25 at checkout. Code is valid until Monday, May 26th.
- Charles & Colvard: Up to 35% off sitewide through Memorial Day!
