From military ceremonies to art festivals, from Nascar speed events to a visit to a warship, North Carolina offers a variety of activities to commemorate Memorial Day in 2026.
Here are 10 activities you can do this Memorial Day weekend.
Map with Memorial Day activities in North Carolina:
1. Memorial Day Ceremony at the North Carolina Capitol
Honor guards, patriotic music, veterans, and families pay respectful tribute to the fallen through their presence and the laying of wreaths. The event takes place at the Military Memorial in Union Square. Chairs will be available, and it is recommended to arrive around 10:45 a.m. to secure a good spot.
More information in Lake.com
>>> To learn more: What is Memorial Day 2026 in the United States and why is it commemorated?
2. Battleship North Carolina Memorial: Ceremony and Tribute of Lights
The Battleship North Carolina is a World War II vessel that is preserved and permanently moored in Wilmington. Originally known as the USS North Carolina, it was the first fast attack craft built by the United States Navy for World War II and received 15 stars for its service in the Pacific Theater. Since 1961, the USS North Carolina has been a museum, and visitors can explore its 222-meter (15-foot) wingspan.
The ceremony begins at 10:30 am on Monday
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3. Memorial Day Art Festival in Asheville
Asheville will celebrate its fifth annual Downtown Asheville Memorial Day Weekend Festival of the Arts on May 23 and 25. For two days, you can enjoy a showcase of local artists' paintings at this free outdoor art exhibition.
More information:
4. Coca Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway
One of the biggest sporting events of Memorial Day couldn't be missed: the NASCAR Coca-Cola 600 will take place on Sunday, May 24th at 6:00 pm. Tickets are required to attend.
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5. Water Lantern Festival in Charlotte
This floating lantern festival has been voted the #1 in the world by USA Today. Charlotte will host the event on May 23rd, where attendees can expect what the organizers promise: a space to pause, reconnect, and experience something truly magical. Tickets are required for entry.
6. Military ceremonies in Western North Carolina
In western North Carolina, a ceremony will be held at the veterans' cemetery where the keynote speaker will be Emiliano Enea, a veteran of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. He is also a member of Brothers and Sisters Like This, a group of Vietnam veterans who use writing and art as a means of healing.
More information at: 82newsnow
7. Memorial Day on Brunswick Island
For those traveling to the North Carolina coast to celebrate the unofficial start of summer, Brunswick Island will hold a ceremony at Sunset Beach Town Park on May 25 at 10:00 am to honor the fallen.
For those who prefer a relaxed atmosphere and enjoy music, there are two free concerts on May 24th: one in Bridgeview Park with the Special Occasion Band and another in Town Center Park with The Entertainers! More information at [website address missing]. ncbrunswick.com
8. Soul Food Festival at Romare Bearden Park Charlotte
Live R&B music, DJ sets, food, and drinks can be enjoyed at this edition of the Soul Food Tour 2026 in Charlotte on May 24, from 2:00 pm to 10:00 pm. Tickets are required to attend.
9. Memorial Day Weekend at Whitewater Center
Participate in a race, practice yoga in the water, listen to Doc Robinson in concert: these are some of the activities that the Whitewater Center has programs for Memorial Day weekend.
More information in whitewater.org
10. Memorial Day Ceremony in Orange County
The Memorial Day ceremony will take place at the Veterans Memorial in Chapel Hill. The keynote speaker will be Secretary Jocelyn Mitnault Mallette, U.S. Army, North Carolina Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. The ceremony will begin at 8:45 a.m. and will be attended by the mayor of Carrboro. Barbara Foushee, who will welcome the attendees.
More information: Orange County Veterans Memorial
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