Memorial Day Ceremony at Evergreen Cemetery, Brainerd, MN

Military Remembrance Events

Memorial Day is one of the two official United States holidays recogniz­ing the commitment of members of America's military services; Memorial Day honors those who lost their lives while defending their country.

The holiday is observed on the last Monday of May, as weather is turn­ing warm and most schools and universities are adjourning for the summer, establishing Memorial Day weekend as the unofficial beginning of summer. However, many Americans also visit cemeteries, where volunteers often place American flags on graves. On Memorial Day itself, a national moment of silence takes place at 3 p.m. local time to remember the war dead.

How did Memorial Day start?

On May 5, 1868, General John A. Logan issued a proclamation calling for "Decoration Day" to be observed annually and nationwide. The first national celebration of Memorial Day (originally Decoration Day) took place on May 30, 1868, at Arlington National Cemetery. 

Memorial Day Services in Brainerd, MN:
  • 9:00 a.m.—Wreath thrown in the Mississippi River at the Laurel St. Bridge in Brainerd
  • 9:30 a.m.— Short ceremony at the All Veterans Memorial at 4th & Laurel St. in Brainerd
  • 10:00 a.m.—Parade on 3rd Ave. NE to Evergreen Cemetery which is located at  1105 3rd Ave. NE in Brainerd.
  • 10:30 a.m.—Main ceremony will be at Evergreen Cemetery. In case of rain, the parade will be cancelled and the ceremony will be at the Brainerd National Guard Armory which is located at 1115 Wright Street in Brainerd.
  • 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.—Free lunch after the ceremony will be provided at Brainerd American Legion for veterans and families. It is located at 708 Front Street in Downtown Brainerd. Donations will be accepted, others can purchase lunch.
  • 3:00 p.m.—Taps Across America at the All-Veterans Memorial which is located at 4th and Laurel Streets in between the Post Office and Historic Crow Wing County Courthouse.
  • 3:00 p.m.—Taps Across America at Fleet Farm which is located at 14114 Dellwood Dr N, Baxter.

Thank you to all-volunteer committee who organizes the Memorial Day Ceremonies in Brainerd, MN.