Memorial Day 2025 in Milwaukee’s North Shore
Parades, ceremonies & places to pay tribute
Memorial Day weekend (May 24 – 26) is a time to honor the men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. Here’s a focused roundup of what’s happening in Milwaukee’s North Shore communities—plus one meaningful stop you can visit on your own.
Whitefish Bay — Memorial Day Ceremony
When: Monday, May 26 at 11 am
Where: Veterans Monument & Memorial Garden, Armory Park (corner of Henry Clay St. & Ardmore Ave.)
What to expect: A brief program with remarks, a wreath‑laying, Taps, and time for reflection at the monument that marks the former National Guard Armory site. The program goes on rain or shine, and attendees should bring a chair or blanket to sit on. There is ample parking in the High School lot. This year's keynote speaker is Mr. Mike Malloy, United States Army Veteran. Mr. Malloy served for 34 years and was previously named Milwaukee County's Veteran of the Year. There will also be a bagpiper, Color Guard, soloist, band, State, County and Local leaders in attendance.
Shorewood — Community Memorial Day Program
When: Sunday, May 25 at 3 pm
Where: Front lawn of Shorewood High School Administration Building, 1701 E Capitol Dr.
Highlights: Keynote by retired U.S. Army veteran Mike Malloy, a bagpiper processional, color guard, live music, local officials, and a community sing‑along. The event is rain‑or‑shine; bring a chair or blanket and arrive a few minutes early for parking. villageofshorewood.org
Mequon‑Thiensville — Memorial Day Parade & Observance
When: Monday, May 26
Parade step‑off: 10 am from Grace Lutheran Church (Thiensville)
Observance: Approx. 11:15 am – 1:30 pm on the lawn at Mequon City Hall
Route: Heads south on Main St./Cedarburg Rd., crossing the river into Mequon.
Details: Organized by American Legion Post 457, the parade features marching bands, Scout troops, antique cars, veteran units, and local youth groups. The post‑parade ceremony includes a rifle salute, patriotic readings, and live music. Families often line the route with flags—plan to park on side streets and walk to a viewing spot. www.mtchamber.org
Glendale — Orthopaedic Hospital of Wisconsin War Memorial (Self‑Guided)
Glendale doesn’t host a formal Memorial Day program this year, but the illuminated War Memorial at Richard E. Maslowski Community Park is open dawn to dusk all weekend. Walk the Oak Leaf Trail spur, let the kids explore the inclusive playground, then pause at the memorial’s five stone pillars—one for each military branch—for a quiet moment of remembrance. If you visit after sunset, the lighting makes for a striking tribute.