Memorial Day, observed on the last Monday of May, is a significant holiday in the United States dedicated to honoring the men and women who have died while serving in the military.

Originating after the Civil War, Memorial Day was initially known as Decoration Day, a time for decorating the graves of fallen soldiers with flowers. Over the years, it has evolved into a day of remembrance for all U.S. military personnel who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

In addition to solemn ceremonies and tributes, Memorial Day weekend also marks the unofficial start of summer, bringing communities together for various events and activities.

In Utah Valley, there's no shortage of ways to commemorate this important holiday while enjoying time with family and friends. Here are some of the top things to do and new openings to look forward to this Memorial Day weekend.

Events

Polaroid summer bucketlist photos

1. Utah Valley Summer Bucketlist

  • 1. Complete photo challenge check-ins of your choice.
  • 2. Unlock an electronic badge automatically as you achieve check-in milestones.
  • 3. Show your badge at the Visitors Center located at 220 West Center Street, Provo to collect your prize. Open Mon-Fri 10 A.M. to 4 P.M.

Ready for an epic summer? Join the Utah Valley Summer Bucket List Challenge and turn every day into a thrill-packed memory! Complete exciting challenges, earn badges, and claim prizes.

From scenic hikes to mouthwatering food trails, there’s something for everyone. Sign up now and let the sun-soaked escapades begin!

2. Venardos Circus

  • Opening: May 23, 2024
  • Location: Lehi
  • Dates: May 23-27, May 30-31, June 1-2

Enjoy an extraordinary circus experience featuring a blend of traditional circus acts and modern performances. Venardos Circus promises an unforgettable show for all ages, combining acrobatics, comedy, and animal-free acts in a vintage circus tent.

3. 2024 Provo Memorial Day Service

  • Location: 610 S State St Provo, UT 84606
  • Time: 10:00 AM

Each year the Freedom Festival partners with the Provo City Veterans Council to remember and honor those lost while bravely serving our nation in the Armed Forces. We welcome you to join us this Monday, May 29, at 10 am for our annual Memorial Day ceremony at Provo City Cemetery.

4. Camp Floyd Days 2024

Location: 18035 West 1540 North Cedar Valley, UT 84013

Camp Floyd State Park is hosting a Camp Floyd Days on Memorial Day. The event will allow visitors to experience camp life and participate in several activities performed by soldiers of Johnston’s Army. See re-enactors drill and fire period muskets. Visit the graves of soldiers who died in the service of our country.

Visit the camps of civilian and military re-enactors and play period games. See artifacts from Camp Floyd from the time it was occupied (1858-1861) in our museum and tour the historic Stagecoach Inn which was in operation from 1858 to 1947.

5. Run of Remembrance

  • Location: 100 East Main Street American Fork, UT 84003
  • Time: 8:00 AM

Participate in the Run of Remembrance, a community race to honor and remember fallen heroes. This family-friendly event includes different race distances, making it suitable for runners of all ages and abilities.

6. Uncharted Worlds

  • Location: 3003 North Thanksgiving Way Lehi, UT 84043
  • Time: May 25 to August 24, 2024

Become an explorer and expand your horizons at Uncharted Worlds: A Journey with Giants! This summer, the Ashton Gardens are taken over by giant insects, life-sized dinosaurs, massive sea creatures, mammoths of the Ice Age, and more.

Throughout your travels, you’ll come across quests and challenges that only the bravest of explorers can conquer. Can you uncover the secrets of these worlds? Adventure into the unknown, only at Uncharted Worlds

7. Vineyard Days

Location: 400 N 110 E Orem, UT 84059

Time: May 28 - June 1, 8:30 AM to 11:59 PM

Celebrate the local community at Vineyard Days, a fun-filled event with activities for the whole family, including games, food vendors, and live entertainment.

8. Memorial Day Ruck/Walk Event: Honoring Our Heroes

Participate in a meaningful ruck/walk event dedicated to honoring military heroes. This event includes a schedule of activities, including a ruck march, ceremonies, and opportunities to sponsor graves.

9. Memorial Day BBQ

  • Location: Sundance Mountain Resort, Provo Canyon
  • Date: May 27, 11 am - 4 pm
  • Enjoy a delicious BBQ at Sundance Mountain Resort, set against the beautiful backdrop of Provo Canyon. The event features mouth-watering food, live music, and a relaxing atmosphere.

10. Memorial Day Ceremonies at Cemeteries

Attend a solemn ceremony at one of the local cemeteries to honor and remember the sacrifices made by our military personnel. Each ceremony includes patriotic speeches, musical tributes, and a moment of silence.

Things to Do and Openings

CLAS Ropes

11. Spring Blitz Zip Tour - CLAS Ropes Course

Location: 3606 West Center Street Provo, UT 84601

Price: Reservations are required and can be done at our website or by calling our office. Tickets are only $25! Groups must be 3 or larger.

Time: 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM

  • Experience the thrill of zip-lining at the Spring Blitz Zip Tour. This adventure offers breathtaking views and an adrenaline-pumping ride, perfect for thrill-seekers looking to add some excitement to their weekend.

12. Splash Summit

  • Opening: May 25
  • Location: Provo
  • Cool off at Splash Summit, a water park featuring a variety of slides, pools, and water attractions. It’s an ideal spot for families and friends to have fun and beat the heat.

13. Alpine Loop

  • Opening: May 24
  • More Info
  • Contact: Plesant Grove Ranger District 801-785-3563
  • Take a scenic drive along the Alpine Loop, which offers stunning views of the Wasatch Mountains and beautiful landscapes. It's a perfect way to enjoy nature and the great outdoors.

14. Orem Splash Pad

  • Opening: May 27
  • Bring the kids to the Orem Splash Pad for a fun and refreshing time. The splash pad features various water play structures and is a great place for children to cool off and play.

15. Spanish Fork Splash Pad

  • Opening: May 15
  • Enjoy water play at the Spanish Fork Splash Pad, which offers interactive water features and a safe, fun environment for children to enjoy.

16. Scera Pool

  • Location: Orem
  • Contact: 801-724-3751
  • Hours: 12 pm - 6 pm
  • Spend a day at the Scera Pool, where you can swim, relax, and soak up the sun. The pool offers various amenities and is a perfect spot for families.

17. Provo Recreation Center

  • Outdoor Pool Opening: May 24
  • The Provo Recreation Center’s outdoor pool is opening for the season, providing a great place to swim and enjoy the sunshine with family and friends.

18. Clyde Recreation Center

  • Location: Springville
  • Outdoor Pool Opening: Memorial Day weekend
  • Visit the Clyde Recreation Center in Springville to take advantage of their outdoor pool. It’s a fantastic spot for swimming, lounging, and having a fun day out.

19. Big Springs Splash Pad

  • Opening: May 25
  • Location: Springville
  • Head to the Big Springs Splash Pad for a day of water fun. This splash pad offers a variety of water features and is a great place for kids to play and cool off.

Make the most of your Memorial Day weekend in Utah Valley by enjoying these exciting events and activities!