Memorial Day Weekend in South Florida blends remembrance and celebration. While the holiday honors those who served, it also signals the start of summer—and locals know how to do both with care and style. Whether you’re into military tributes, laid-back beach days, or a mix of music, food, and boating, this weekend has plenty to offer.
Here’s a round-up of the best places to go and things to do in South Florida during Memorial Day Weekend 2025—broken down by vibe, so you can pick what fits your plans.
Start with What Matters: Memorial Day Ceremonies
Lauderdale Memorial Park Ceremony

📍 Fort Lauderdale – Monday, May 26, 9 AM
This long-standing ceremony features local leaders, veterans, and community members coming together to honor fallen service members. Expect wreath-laying, speeches, and moments of silence.
Pompano Beach Parade & Ceremony

📍 Downtown to Pompano Beach Cemetery – Monday, May 26, 9 AM
Kick off the day with a small-town parade that leads into a respectful ceremony. It’s patriotic, family-friendly, and rooted in tradition.
Good to Know: These events are free and open to the public. Bring sunscreen, water, and a flag if you have one.
Big Events: Air Shows, Music, and Beach Energy
Hyundai Air & Sea Show

📍 Miami Beach – Saturday, May 24 & Sunday, May 25
This massive show pulls in crowds for good reason. Expect fighter jets, parachute jumps, powerboat demos, and military displays right over the ocean. It’s loud, thrilling, and well-organized.
Miamibloco at the Bandshell

📍 Miami Beach Bandshell – Saturday, May 24
If you’re more into rhythm than roar, this Brazilian-style samba showcase is worth checking out. Live percussion, dancing, and high energy from a community-driven music collective.
Tip: Reserve your spot in advance—this one fills up fast, especially with locals.
Water Vibes: Boating & Sandbar Hangouts
Haulover Sandbar

📍 Biscayne Bay, North Miami
South Florida boaters already know—Haulover turns into a floating party during holiday weekends. Tie up, tune in to someone’s speaker, and enjoy the people-watching.
Islamorada Sandbar

📍 Upper Florida Keys
If you’re headed toward the Keys, this is the go-to spot for boaters. Shallow water, music, floating food vendors, and a laid-back crowd.
Boater’s Note: Get there early to anchor in a good spot. Pack coolers, sunshades, and water shoes.
Active & Outdoorsy: For a More Low-Key Day
Oleta River State Park

📍 North Miami Beach
If you’d rather paddle than party, rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore mangrove trails at Oleta. It’s calm, scenic, and a good choice for groups or solo travelers looking for quiet nature time.
South Pointe Park

📍 South Beach, Miami
This waterfront park is perfect for picnics, sunset views, or just strolling the pier. It’s near the beach, but not in the thick of the party scene. Great for couples or anyone wanting to wind down the day peacefully.
Culinary Delights: Seafood and Festivals
Blue Crab Festival

📍 Palatka, FL – May 23 to 25, 2025
The Blue Crab Festival is a longstanding tradition in Palatka, Florida, celebrating its 30th year in 2025. Held along the scenic riverfront, the festival features a variety of seafood vendors, carnival rides, live music, arts and crafts, and family-friendly activities. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy fresh seafood while honoring the Memorial Day spirit.
Seafood Festival at SPC Clearwater Campus

📍 Clearwater, FL – May 24, 2025
For those on the Gulf Coast, the Seafood Festival at St. Petersburg College’s Clearwater Campus offers an afternoon of delicious seafood from local vendors, live entertainment, and activities for kids. The event runs from 3 PM to 9 PM and provides free parking, making it a convenient option for families looking to celebrate the holiday weekend.
Many local restaurants in areas like Coconut Grove or Fort Lauderdale offer Memorial Day food specials and waterfront dining, so keep an eye out for live music and festive menus even outside of official events.
Whether you’re traveling upstate or staying along the coast, there’s no shortage of places to enjoy fresh seafood and live music with family and friends.
Memorial Day Weekend in South Florida is what you make it. You can keep it meaningful with a quiet ceremony or go big with beach parties and air shows. You can explore nature, hit the water, or just enjoy great food with great people.
Whatever your pace, the options are there. And if you plan it right, you’ll walk away with the kind of weekend that feels like the start of summer should.