Guide to Memorial Day Weekend in the Neighborhood
Memorial Day is a national holiday and a day of remembrance for those who have died while serving in the armed forces of our country. Originally called Decoration Day, it was a day to visit the cemetery and decorate the graves of fallen soldiers. It’s also the unofficial kickoff of summer. Here are some things to do this weekend in the neighborhood if you’re sticking around!
Visit the Fallen Heroes Memorial in the Seaport
At the northern edge of Seaport Common, surrounded by the ever-changing light of the waterfront, stands a powerful tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice for a grateful nation. The first of its kind in the country, the memorial honors the Commonwealth’s brave servicemen and women who lost their lives fighting for our freedoms since September 11, 2001. Over 4000 flags have been planted to commemorate Memorial Day.
The rededication for the Massachusetts Fallen Heroes Memorial is scheduled to take place on Friday, May 22, 2026 in the area of 85 Northern Avenue. The ceremony will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and will require the closing of Northern Avenue from Fan Pier Boulevard to Harbor Shore Drive. Northern Avenue is expected to be closed from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Visit Dot Fun Day
A new summer tradition is coming to Dorchester! Dot Fun Day, a new open-air market, is set to debut on Sunday, May 24th, in the former Dorchester Tire space — and it sounds like there will be a little something for everyone. Organizers are planning a fun, community-focused setup featuring local food and shopping vendors, craft workshops, kid and pet zones, and, maybe, even a beer garden. The vision? Creating a space where neighbors can gather, hang out, and connect all summer long. The first market will kick off with a smaller group of vendors, with plans to reach full capacity as the season progresses. Dot Fun Day is expected to run every Sunday through October. Make sure to follow Dot Fun Day on Instagram for the latest!
Run to Remember
The 2026 Boston Run To Remember will take place on Sunday, May 24, 2026, in the Seaport. Boston’s Run To Remember
is a Half Marathon or 5 Mile race (live or virtual) that pays tribute to fallen 1st Responders. “We honor all 1st Responders by celebrating their service and giving back to the community.” You can get all the details, including registration info, here.
Memorial Day Flag Garden
The City of Boston’s flag garden is on display through Monday at Boston Common. Each of the 37,000+ American flags planted at the Soldiers and Sailors Monument represents every brave Massachusetts service member who gave his or her life defending our country since the Revolutionary War.
Beer + wine for your MDW celebrations
American Provisions will make sure your July Fourth celebration has the perfect selection of wine and beer! AP Dorchester also offers meat + cheese boards and desserts.
Cedar Grove Cemetery Memorial Day Tour
On Monday, May 25th at 12pm, enjoy a 90 minute walking tour to learn the history of Cedar Grove Cemetery and honor the sacrifice of 150 years of Dorchester residents in service to our country.
Dinner on the Patio at 224
224 Boston Street has one of the most beautiful patios in the neighborhood. Make a plan to enjoy the outdoors while you enjoy your dinner! They also serve brunch on Sundays!
Free admission to local Museums
In honor of Memorial Day, enjoy free admission at the Museum of Fine Arts and the ICA Boston on Monday!
It’s Officially Ice Cream Season at Landmark Ice Cream Bar
It’s officially ice cream season – who are we kidding, it’s always ice cream season – and Landmark PublicHouse ice cream bar in Adams Village is officially open! Enjoy scoops of your favorite flavor, sundaes, frappes, and Richie’s Italian slush. They’ve launched a new Instagram account for their ice cream bar here! Give them a follow for the latest scoop (get it?)!
Cisco Brewers Seaport
Open Daily through October 2026 at 100 Seaport Boulevard. Cisco Brewers opened in April for its ninth season, bringing live music, craft beer, and waterfront energy back to Seaport. New for 2026, guests can reserve themed Beach Shacks and enjoy expanded food offerings and daily entertainment. Learn more: https://www.bostonseaport.xyz/
Park City
Park City is now open, transforming a former ironworks site into a 30,000-square-foot outdoor hangout with food, drinks, games, and live music. It’s part restaurant, part beer garden, part summer playground—complete with swings, cabanas, a stage, and a dedicated dog area called Bark City. The menu goes beyond typical food truck fare with smash burgers, fish tacos, lomo saltado, and lobster rolls, all made on-site. Expect local beers, canned cocktails, and spritz pouches from the bar, plus weekend events and family-friendly fun like face painting and ice cream! Make sure to follow them on Instagram for the schedule of activities.
Check back as this list may be updated.
Maureen Dahill is the editor of Caught in Southie and a lifelong resident of South Boston sometimes mistaken for a yuppie. Co-host of Caught Up, storyteller, lover of red wine and binge watching TV series. Mrs. Peter G. Follow her @MaureenCaught.
