Memorial Day weekend always feels like the unofficial start of summer in the Bronx. The weather finally starts cooperating, the parks fill up, grills come out, and families are ready to spend time together after a long school year and busy spring season.
Whether you’re planning a backyard BBQ, a beach day, a local outing, visiting friends, or simply looking for ways to keep the kids entertained without overcomplicating the weekend, we put together a Bronx-mom-approved guide to making the most of Memorial Day weekend with your family.
And while the weekend often brings fun summer traditions, it’s also a time to pause and remember the meaning behind Memorial Day and honor those who served and sacrificed for our country.
Memorial Day Parades Happening in the Bronx
Van Nest Memorial Day Parade
📍 Monday, May 25, 2026 at 12 PM
The Van Nest Memorial Day Parade begins just south of White Plains Road and Van Nest Avenue before marching to Van Nest Memorial Plaza.
Hosted by the Van Nest Neighborhood Alliance and Bronx County American Legion, the parade honors veterans while celebrating the 100-year history of the Van Nest monument.
City Island Memorial Day Parade
📍 Monday, May 25, 2026 at 2 PM
Hosted by the Leonard H. Hawkins American Legion Post 156, this longtime community tradition takes place along City Island Avenue between Winter Street and Pilot Street.
The parade includes marches to local war monuments and wreath-laying ceremonies at Pelham Cemetery.
Family-Friendly Things To Do in & Near the Bronx
Spend the Day at a Bronx Park
You really can’t go wrong with a simple park day. Pack snacks, bubbles, scooters, chalk, or a soccer ball and let the kids burn off energy outdoors.
Some local favorites:
- Pelham Bay Park
- Van Cortlandt Park
- Ferry Point Park
- Crotona Park
Bonus idea: turn it into a picnic and let the kids help pack lunch.
Plan a Beach or Waterfront Day
If the weather is warm enough, Memorial Day weekend is the perfect excuse for the first beach trip of the season.
Family favorites in or near the Bronx:
- Orchard Beach
- Rye Playland Beach
- Glen Island Park
- Jones Beach for a day trip
Don’t forget:
- sunscreen
- extra towels
- sand toys
- snacks
- backup clothes for the ride home
Easy Memorial Day BBQ Ideas for Families
You do not need to host a Pinterest-perfect BBQ to make memories.
Easy crowd-pleasers:
- burgers & hot dogs
- watermelon
- pasta salad
- corn on the cob
- fruit skewers
- ice pops for the kids
Kid-friendly activity ideas:
- sidewalk chalk
- water balloons
- bubbles
- sprinkler play
- backyard dance party
Mom tip: prep what you can the night before and accept help when people offer it.
Low-Stress Memorial Day Weekend Ideas
Not every family wants a packed schedule — and honestly, sometimes the best weekends are the simplest ones.
A few low-key ideas:
- sunset walk on City Island
- ice cream outing
- bike rides
- breakfast outside
- visiting family
- relaxing at home while the kids play outside
Memorial Day Weekend Essentials for Moms
A few things Bronx moms always seem to need at the last minute:
- sunscreen
- bug spray
- baby wipes
- foldable chairs
- cooler bags
- reusable water bottles
- portable phone chargers
- swim diapers
- extra snacks
Remembering the Meaning of Memorial Day
In the middle of all the summer fun, Memorial Day is also a time to reflect and honor the men and women who lost their lives serving our country.
For many families, that can simply mean taking a moment to talk with children about gratitude, service, and remembrance in an age-appropriate way.
Wishing all Bronx moms and families a safe, relaxing, and memory-filled Memorial Day weekend ❤️
Bronx Moms Collective 
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