Memorial Day Events in Central Mass

Monday, May 27, 2013

Jeffrey Starr, GoLocalWorcester Contributor

Memorial Day is a time to honor fallen veterans,

Sure this long weekend marks the unofficial beginning of summer for many, but don't forget the true meaning of one of America's most honored, meaningful and important holidays.

First enacted to honor Union and Confederate soldiers in the aftermath of the Civil War, Memorial Day was extended after World War I to honor Americans who have died in all wars.

In Central Mass this weekend, the following parades, observances, and annual celebrations are open to the public.

Sutton
Parade and Ceremonies: 11 am – Monday May 27th
Sutton's Memorial Day Ceremonies and Parade begin at the Sutton Center Common at 11 am and end at the Sutton School.

Holden
Parade and Ceremony: 11 am – Main Street, Monday, May 27th
The Town's Memorial Day Parade will start at 11 am, Monday, May 27. A military honor guard and the Spirit of America Band will lead the parade as it marches down Main Street to the town's traditional memorial observances and salute.

Shrewsbury
Parade and Ceremony: 9:30 am – Maple Avenue, Monday May 27th
The Annual Memorial Day Parade and Services will be held on Monday, May 27th at 9:30 am. Parade participants will form at the Town Hall/Senior Center entrance for drop off at 9:00 am. The Parade starts at 9:30 am at Town Hall and continues to the Town Center. The Memorial Day address will be given in front of the War Memorial at the corner of the library. The Parade will continue to Mountain View Cemetery. All Veterans and Active military personnel are welcome to march in the parade.

Northborough
Parade and Ceremonies: 12 pm –Monroe Street, Monday, May 27th
The parade will begin on Monroe Street with best viewing options on Main Street, Church Street, and Howard Street. There will be ceremonies at the Civil War, World War II, Korean War, Vietnam War, and First World War Monuments. There will be an additional ceremony at the Vietnam Monument/flagpole at the Howard Street Cemetery.

West Boylston
5k Run and Walk and American Legion BBQ: 10 am – Hartwell Street, Saturday, May 25th
The 5K event on May 25th features prizes in several age groups. T-shirts are available for the first 50 registrations. The race includes water stations, awards and post-race refreshments. Join other town residents for the Annual American Legion Chicken BBQ after the race from 1 pm - 3 pm ($10.00 per person). A festival is scheduled throughout the day with a bonfire and fireworks at Goodale Park.

Spencer
45th Annual Memorial Day Weekend Powwow: 92 McCormick Road, May 25th-26th
The American Indianist Society once again organizes this event for Memorial Day Weekend. Attend afternoon and evening dance sessions featuring southern and northern drums. Traders will be present with authentic Native American supplies, crafts, and other handmade items. A number of vendors will also be on hand with many different kinds of food.

Sturbridge
Wool Day at Old Sturbridge Village, 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road, May 25-27th
An annual activity, this weekend are the Wool Days at Old Sturbridge Village. The resident sheep get their yearly haircut in preparation for the summer. The usual costumed performers demonstrate the old tradition for the public. Other fun activities are also planned.

Worcester
Water Ceremony, Sunday, May 26, 2 pm at Elm Park
126th Memorial Day Observance/Remembrance Ceremony, Monday, May 27, 9 am at Hope Cemetery
Wreath Laying Ceremony, Monday, May 27, 1 pm at Massachusetts Vietnam Veterans Memorial at Green Hill Park

Ashburnham
Parade: 8:45 am, Monday 27th
The parade begins at 8:45 am on Monday.

Fitchburg
Parade: 10 am, Monday, May 27th
Fitchburg's parade begins at 10 am on Monday.

Westminster
Parade: 11 am, Monday, May 27th
Westminster's parade begins at 11 am on Monday.