Memorial Day, observed on Monday, May 26, 2025, will be marked throughout the Phoenix metropolitan area with solemn tributes, moving ceremonies, and symbolic gestures honoring the men and women who gave their lives in military service to the United States.
From early morning gatherings in Litchfield Park to synchronized flyovers across Valley cemeteries, these events offer residents of all ages meaningful ways to reflect on the true purpose of Memorial Day — remembering those who died protecting our nation’s freedoms.
🌅 Early Morning Ceremony in Litchfield Park
The City of Litchfield Park will begin Memorial Day observances with an intimate 7:00 a.m. ceremony at the WWII Memorial (255 W Wigwam Blvd).
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Floral presentation
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Prayer and a moment of silence
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“Taps” performance
This 30-minute tribute offers a heartfelt way for West Valley residents to start the day with reflection and gratitude.
🎖️ Gilbert’s Collaborative Ceremony
This service, held from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. at Gilbert Town Hall (50 E Civic Center Drive), is co-hosted by HD SOUTH, the Town of Gilbert, and American Legion Post 39.
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Flag & wreath ceremony
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POW/MIA table
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Battlefield Cross tribute
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Remarks from Mayor Scott Anderson
This free, public event honors all who served with dignity and unity.
🎵 Avondale’s Musical Tribute
Avondale’s Memorial Day ceremony begins at 8:30 a.m. at the Civic Center Amphitheater (11465 W. Civic Center Drive).
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Patriotic musical performances
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Flag ceremony
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Hosted by the American Legion, VFW, and Blue Star Moms
Attendees should bring lawn chairs or blankets for this moving outdoor event.
✈️ Valley-Wide Missing Man Flyovers
A signature highlight of Memorial Day in Phoenix is the Missing Man Formation flyovers performed by Falcon Warbirds, honoring fallen heroes across eight cemeteries:
Flyover Schedule
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9:30 a.m. – Sunland Memorial Park, Sun City
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9:34 a.m. – West Resthaven Funeral Home, Glendale
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9:39 a.m. – Greenwood Memory Lawn, Phoenix
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9:45 a.m. – Resthaven/Carr-Tenney Mortuary, Phoenix
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9:53 a.m. – Valley of the Sun Mortuary, Chandler
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10:02 a.m. – Mariposa Gardens Memorial Park, Mesa
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10:10 a.m. – Green Acres Mortuary, Scottsdale
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10:20 a.m. – Phoenix Memorial Park & Mortuary
The Missing Man formation—where one aircraft veers away from the group—offers a powerful, visual symbol of remembrance and sacrifice.
🕊️ A Community United in Tribute
Whether attending a local ceremony or watching the sky as the warbirds pass overhead, Phoenix residents have countless ways to honor and remember. These commemorations offer a shared moment of gratitude for our freedoms, secured by those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
