For more than 90 years, observances at local cemeteries with ceremonial red poppy wreath laying are included to commemorate Memorial Day in Naperville. Prior to the parade, veterans decorate local cemeteries and veterans’ monuments. During the parade they pause at Veterans Plaza along the Riverwalk and after the parade they recognize fallen soldiers in Central Park.
Memorial Day Schedule
Note: Morning flag raising services will begin 15 minutes earlier again this year.
7:45AM – Flag raising and service at 9/11-Cmdr. Dan Shanower Memorial – (taps & volley)
8:15AM – Service at Veterans Park (Gartner Rd.) – (taps & volley)
8:35AM – Service at Burlington Square Park Doughboy Monument – (taps & volley)
9AM – Service at St. Peter & Paul Cemetery (taps & volley)
9:45AM – Service at GAR Monument in Naperville Cemetery – (taps & volley)
Memorial Day Parade Begins at 10:30AM
10:30AM – Advance section of parade steps off from Jackson and Ewing. Spectators are asked to line the street east of Ewing in order to enjoy all the band in the parade.
10:40AM – Service at Veterans Plaza, corner of Webster & Jackson. Then the Main Parade steps off from Jackson & West St., East to Washington, North to Benton, East to Court Place (Veterans & Military Units), East to Ss. Peter & Paul parking lot.
Memorial Day Observance in Central Park at 12:15PM
12:15PM – Immediately following the conclusion of the colorful red, white and blue parade, an observance with patriotic messages from guest speakers and musical tributes performed by the Naperville Municipal Band again will be held in Central Park at the Community Concert Center. Additional selected music will be provided by Metea Valley High School during the 30-minute observance.
