Honoring Heroes : Memorial Day Events Around Austin 2025

Memorial Day isn’t just a long weekend—it’s a time to pause and remember the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. Their courage and sacrifice made the freedoms we enjoy today possible.

All across the Austin area, people find meaningful ways to honor that sacrifice. You’ll see flags placed beside headstones in local cemeteries, quiet ceremonies in parks and city squares, and gatherings filled with music, silence, and the reading of names. These moments may be simple, but they carry a powerful message: we remember, and we’re grateful.

You don’t need to plan something big to make the day meaningful. A quiet moment of reflection, a story shared, or even flying the flag with care can speak volumes. If you’re looking for ways to honor the day, here are a few ideas:

• Join a local tribute. Parades, wreath-laying ceremonies, and memorial services are a chance to come together in remembrance.

• Support veterans’ groups. Consider volunteering or donating to organizations that help veterans and their families.

• Learn a name, share a story. Take time to read about someone who served—and keep their memory alive by sharing their story.

• Display the flag. Fly it proudly, and follow proper flag etiquette to show your respect.

This year, Memorial Day falls on Monday, May 26, 2025, and communities around Austin will gather in quiet, powerful ways to reflect and remember.

USAF Band of the West Memorial Day Celebration

May 22, 2025 | Texas Capitol - 1100 Congress Avenue, Austin

The Texas Capitol will serve as the setting for the USAF Band of the West’s Memorial Day Celebration. This annual event invites the community to honor and reflect on the sacrifices made by military service members. With stirring patriotic performances and the historic backdrop of the Capitol building, attendees can expect an uplifting and emotional tribute to those who have served and fallen.

2025 Ascension Seton CapTex Tri

May 26, 2025 | Downtown Austin

Held annually on Memorial Day, CapTex triathlon draws athletes from across the country to swim, bike, and run through the city. Participants will dive into the challenge with a swim in Lady Bird Lake, followed by a scenic bike ride through downtown Austin, featuring the iconic Texas Capitol along the route. The final leg takes runners through the beauty of Butler Park, culminating in a lively finish line celebration at Auditorium Shores.

The CapTex Tri offers a dynamic and memorable race experience in the heart of the city. Spectators will line the streets to cheer on participants, making it a high-energy event that blends endurance, celebration, and community spirit.

Memorial Day Sunset Strings w Award winning Violinist Will Taylor

May 26, 2025 | 1601 Spyglass Drive, Austin, 78746

Award-winning violinist Will Taylor will take the stage for a heartfelt Memorial Day performance at Sunset Strings. Set against a stunning sunset view on Spyglass Drive, this intimate outdoor concert offers a reflective and soulful tribute through music. Guests will enjoy an evening of beautiful string arrangements in honor of those who have served, with nature and melody harmonizing to mark the occasion.

Hot Luck Fest 2025

May 22-25, 2025 |  Various Locations

Hot Luck Fest returns to Austin for Memorial Day weekend with four days of fire, flavor, and fun. Hosted across multiple venues, this beloved food and music festival showcases culinary innovation from top chefs and pitmasters, paired with live performances from some of Austin’s favorite artists. The festival will feature a variety of ticketed events, including a taco-themed welcome party, gatherings at Fair Market and Wild Onion Ranch, and a lively experience at Camp Sunnyside. From sizzling meats to spicy creations, Hot Luck offers an unforgettable celebration of food culture with a Texas twist.

Close Assault 1968 Vietnam War Living History Program

May 24-25, 2025 | Texas Military Forces Museum - 3038 W 35th ST Bldg 6, Camp Mabry, Austin, TX, 78703

A powerful and immersive tribute to our nation's Vietnam veterans, the Close Assault 1968 Vietnam War Living History Program at the Texas Military Forces Museum invites you to step back in time and witness history firsthand. This free, two-day event features the Texas Military Forces Living History Detachment, who will showcase the uniforms, equipment, and operational vehicles used during the Vietnam War.

Guests will have the chance to observe blank weapon firing demonstrations, including iconic weapons like the M16 rifle, M60 machine gun, and M79 grenade launcher, as well as military vehicles such as the M113 armored personnel carrier and the M151 Jeep. The program culminates with a dramatic recreated ambush and battle, offering a compelling and educational experience. Showtimes are at 11 AM and 2 PM on Saturday and 1 PM on Sunday, and admission to both the program and the museum is free.

Memorial Day: Remember and Honor Event

May 26, 2025 | Yonders Point Flag Plaza at Old Settlers Park - 3103 Aten Loop, Round Rock, TX, 78665

The Memorial Day: Remember and Honor Event in Round Rock is a solemn gathering to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. Hosted by the Round Rock Veteran’s Coalition and the City of Round Rock, this Memorial Day ceremony will feature prominent guest speakers, including Major General Michael "Mac" McCurry, a distinguished military leader with extensive experience across the globe, and Alain Babin, a retired Assistant Chief of Police and passionate advocate for veterans’ organizations. Together, they will share their reflections and help the community remember the bravery and sacrifice of our fallen heroes. This ceremony is a meaningful way for families and veterans to come together and honor the true spirit of Memorial Day in a beautiful outdoor setting at Old Settlers Park.

Memorial Day Freedom Run 5K/10K/13.1

May 24, 2025 | Cedar Park, TX 78613

The Memorial Day Freedom Run is a way to honor the brave men and women who have sacrificed for our freedom. Whether you’re running a 5K, 10K, or 13.1, this event offers scenic routes, a strong sense of community, and a deep connection to the true meaning of Memorial Day. Participants of all ages and paces are welcome to walk or run in tribute to our heroes. The race is designed to be a supportive, stress-free experience with coordinators ensuring a smooth event for everyone. It’s a chance to challenge yourself while remembering those who gave everything for our country. With limited space available, be sure to sign up early to participate in this moving event.

Rooftop Day Party Memorial Day Weekend

May 25, 2025 | Speakeasy - 412 Congress Avenue, Austin

Set atop a stunning rooftop with incredible downtown views, this event is all about good vibes, great people, and the best tunes in town. Featuring music from Austin’s top DJs spinning a variety of hip-hop, R&B, reggae, and afrobeat, this party is perfect for those who want to dance the day away. With VIP seating and bottle service available, it’s the ultimate way to celebrate the long weekend in style. Don’t miss out on a fantastic atmosphere with drink specials, hookah, and great company.

Memorial Day Weekend Austin Bar Crawl - 6th Street

May 23-26, 2025 | West 6th Street, Austin, TX

Get ready for the Memorial Day Weekend Austin Bar Crawl, an unforgettable way to experience the best of Austin’s nightlife! Over four nights, you’ll have access to exclusive drink specials and free entry to the most iconic bars on Dirty 6th Street. This bar crawl offers a fun and stress-free way to explore Austin’s famous bar scene. The party hosts will guide you to each venue, making sure you enjoy the best drinks and a great atmosphere. Plus, you’ll get exclusive photos of your crawl to capture the memories. Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate Memorial Day Weekend in true Austin style!

On Memorial Day, we remember the fallen who gave their all for liberty. Let their sacrifice inspire us to cherish the peace they earned and strive to create a future as bright as the ideals they defended.