News Summary
Beaufort will commemorate Memorial Day with a series of events honoring fallen servicemen and women. The festivities include a parade, memorial services, cultural activities, and the Gullah Festival. The keynote speaker for the ceremonies will be a retired Air Force general, emphasizing the community’s dedication to remembering those who served. Additionally, activities like placing flags on graves and courtesy boat inspections will promote safety and community involvement throughout the holiday weekend.
Beaufort, SC — The city of Beaufort will honor fallen servicemen and women this upcoming Memorial Day weekend, with a series of events designed to commemorate their sacrifices. Memorial Day, observed on Monday, May 26, 2025, will feature the annual Memorial Day parade, memorial services, and cultural festivities, all part of the broader observance of this significant holiday.
The Memorial Day parade, organized by Beaufort County Veterans Affairs in collaboration with the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War, will commence at 10 a.m. Following a lineup beginning at 9 a.m., the parade will start from the Beaufort National Cemetery and proceed down Boundary Street, towards Carteret Street, turning right onto Bay Street before concluding at the intersection of Boundary and Bladen Streets. Organizers are hopeful for an increased turnout this year, despite noticing low attendance in previous years. Rev. Venice Young, one of the oldest ministers in Beaufort, has been designated as the Grand Marshal of the parade.
In the event of inclement weather, the parade is subject to cancellation, and participants are advised to stay updated on potential changes. Following the parade, a Memorial Day ceremony is scheduled for noon at the Beaufort National Cemetery, where attendees are encouraged to use the side entrance from Rogers Street. The keynote speaker for the ceremony will be General Lloyd “Fig” Newton, a retired four-star U.S. Air Force general, who will deliver remarks to honor the contributions of veterans.
This year’s celebrations also coincide with the annual Gullah Festival, taking place from May 22 to May 25 at Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park. This cultural festivity features a variety of free events, alongside specific activities that may require an entry fee. Entertainment will include performances by the Gullah Traveling Theater, particularly for the “Decoration Day” shows on May 22 and May 24, which will emphasize Gullah traditions linked to Memorial Day.
Those wishing to attend the “Decoration Day” performances can purchase tickets priced at $55 for adults, $15 for youths aged 7 to 17, and free entry for children 6 years and younger. Additionally, a special church service will be held on May 25 at 3 p.m. at Central Baptist Church, supported by various veterans’ organizations. During this service, attendees will partake in a poignant tradition, tossing flowers into the Beaufort River in remembrance of fallen service members.
The community is also invited to participate in the Flags In event, taking place on May 23 at 6 p.m. This event will allow the public to honor veterans by placing U.S. flags on graves at Beaufort National Cemetery. Should weather conditions be adverse, the event will be rescheduled for 8 a.m. on May 24. The Flags Out event for the removal of flags from graves is set for May 27 at 9 a.m., providing another opportunity for community involvement in commemorative activities.
To ensure safety during the holiday weekend, the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) will conduct courtesy boat inspections at local boat landings on May 25 and May 26. These inspections aim to promote responsible boating practices during this busy time, coinciding with the expected increase in recreational boating activities associated with the holiday.
Beaufort stands ready to celebrate Memorial Day with pride and remembrance, showcasing the community’s commitment to honoring those who have served in the military and a vibrant cultural heritage throughout the weekend.
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Additional Resources
- Explore Beaufort SC: Memorial Day Parade Ceremony
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Memorial Day
- WNCT: Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office on Boating Safety
- Wikipedia: Boating Safety
- WSAV: Beaufort County Memorial Day Festivities
- Google Search: Memorial Day events 2025
