Grand Rapids Will Observe Memorial Day With Lights

There won't be a parade, however, Grand Rapids is planning to light up the city to observe Memorial Day.

Memorial Day is a federal holiday for honoring and mourning the military personnel who have died in the performance of their military duties while serving in the United States Armed Forces. The holiday is observed on the last Monday of May.

In years past, Grand Rapids has witnessed the day with a parade. This year, the City of Grand Rapids is partnering with the United Veterans Council of Kent County to celebrate Memorial Day with a Light Grand Rapids event throughout this upcoming weekend.

Joe Holloman posted to their Facebook account,

Memorial Day is coming up at the end of the month! The way we honor & remember our veterans will look a little different this year as there will not be an in-person parade in Grand Rapids. The United Veterans Council of Kent County is working closely with the City of Grand Rapids Office of Special Events and the media company Forward Exposure to ensure this day is recognized just as fervently across the community.

Grand Rapids will light up different public places like the Blue Bridge. Other confirmed sites participating include McKay Tower, Varnum, Amway Tower, the Gallery Parking Lot and the Bridge Street underpass.

Evette Pittman, special events manager at the city’s Office of Special Events told Fox 17,

We do not want to see this important day go by without recognition. We want to show appreciation and remember the sacrifices of those who served our nation in a way that allows everyone in our community to participate in a safe way.