- by Nora Fairman
CELEBRATE MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND
IN THE BERKSHIRES
As the unofficial start of summer, Memorial Day Weekend in the Berkshires offers a unique blend of remembrance, community spirit, and outdoor enjoyment. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this long weekend is the perfect time to soak in the region’s natural beauty, attend some moving ceremonies, and experience traditional parades that honor those who have served our country. Here’s a guide to celebrating Memorial Day Weekend in this scenic, historic corner of Massachusetts.
Town Parades
Stockbridge Memorial Day Parade
Monday, May 29th at 10:00 AM
The Stockbridge Memorial Day Parade is one of the oldest and most cherished parades in the Berkshires, drawing locals and visitors alike. It kicks off at 10:00 AM and runs along Main Street. The parade features veterans, local fire departments, marching bands, and civic organizations. Stockbridge, home to Norman Rockwell’s iconic “Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas” painting, provides a picturesque backdrop for this meaningful procession.
Great Barrington Memorial Day Parade
Monday, May 29th at 12:00 PM
The Great Barrington Memorial Day Parade is a vibrant celebration of the region’s rich history and strong sense of community. Beginning at noon, the parade weaves through the heart of Great Barrington, with a procession of veterans, local schools, and community groups. The event is followed by a ceremony at the Monument, where a moment of silence is observed, and speeches are made in honor of the fallen heroes.
Lee Memorial Day Parade
Monday, May 29th at 11:00 AM
The Lee Memorial Day Parade starts at 11:00 AM and makes its way through the charming town of Lee. With a strong sense of pride and remembrance, this parade is filled with veterans, civic groups, and local families. The parade is followed by a ceremony at the Lee Veterans Memorial Park, where flowers are placed at the base of the monument, paying tribute to those who have served.
Ceremonies & Events
Memorial Day is not only about parades but also about reflection and remembrance. In addition to the parades, there are several solemn ceremonies taking place around the Berkshires:
Berkshire County Memorial Day Ceremony
Monday, May 29th at 1:00 PM
For a more solemn and reflective experience, head to Pittsfield Common at 1:00 PM for the Berkshire County Memorial Day Ceremony. The event features speeches from local dignitaries, the reading of names of fallen soldiers, and a 21-gun salute. It’s a moving tribute that provides an opportunity to honor those who sacrificed everything for our country.
Housatonic Memorial Day Ceremony
Monday, May 29th at 9:00 AM
The Housatonic Memorial Day Ceremony takes place at 9:00 AM at the historic Housatonic Cemetery in Great Barrington. It includes a flag-raising ceremony, an invocation, and the laying of wreaths in honor of veterans. This intimate ceremony offers a quiet, reflective space for visitors to pay respects.
Williamstown Memorial Day Ceremony
Monday, May 29th at 10:00 AM
Williamstown hosts a moving Memorial Day ceremony at the Veterans Memorial Park at 10:00 AM. This ceremony includes a wreath-laying, the playing of “Taps,” and a reading of the names of local veterans who have passed. The ceremony offers an opportunity to honor both national heroes and those from the local community. Surrounded by the charming village of Williamstown and the stunning views of the surrounding mountains, it’s a perfect spot to take a quiet moment to reflect on the significance of the day.
Advice for Attendees
For Locals:
- Get Involved: If you’re a local, consider volunteering to help with the events. Many of the parades and ceremonies are supported by community volunteers, and it’s a great way to give back and participate in honoring our veterans.
- Celebrate with Family: Memorial Day in the Berkshires is a great time to gather with family and friends. Pack a picnic or grab a bite to eat at one of the local eateries in Stockbridge, Great Barrington, or Lee. Make sure to arrive early to get a good spot along the parade route, especially in Stockbridge, where the crowds can get quite large.
- Support Local Businesses: This is also the perfect time to support local restaurants, boutiques, and galleries in the Berkshires. Many places have Memorial Day sales or special menus, and it’s always great to explore the charming towns while celebrating.
For Visitors:
- Arrive Early: Memorial Day Weekend in the Berkshires can be busy, so be sure to arrive early for parades or ceremonies to get a good spot. Parking can fill up quickly, especially in smaller towns like Stockbridge and Lee. Be sure to check out town websites or Facebook pages for parking information so you can prepare accordingly.
- Dress for the Weather: While the weather in the Berkshires can be unpredictable, Memorial Day Weekend usually brings beautiful spring temperatures. However, it’s a good idea to bring layers, as you never know what to anticipate with New England weather!
- Explore the Outdoors: In between attending parades and ceremonies, take advantage of the beautiful Berkshire landscape. Head out for a hike on one of the area’s many trails or take a scenic drive through the hills and forests. Popular spots include the Appalachian Trail, Mount Greylock, and the Berkshire Botanical Garden.
Memorial Day Weekend in the Berkshires offers an unforgettable experience—blending reverence, community spirit, and outdoor beauty. Whether you’re attending one of the local parades, participating in a ceremony, or simply enjoying the stunning surroundings, this weekend is a meaningful and enjoyable way to kick off the summer season. Make sure to honor the sacrifices of our veterans, appreciate the natural beauty of the Berkshires, and cherish time with family and friends.
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