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Honor our nation’s heroes in Tampa Bay this Memorial Day

We’re sharing seven ideas for commemorating the day across Hillsborough and Pinellas.

MacDill Vietnam veteran salutes

A Vietnam veteran renders a salute during the national anthem.

Photo provided by MacDill AFB

Today Is Memorial Day, a federal holiday honoring those who sacrificed their lives for our country.

We’re sharing some ways to observe the holiday across TBAY:

Memorial Day Ceremony | 11 a.m. | MacDill Park | Free | Head to the Gold Star Families Memorial Monument to remember those who have given their lives in service of the country — featuring remarks by Mayor Castor + Major General Tegtmeier.

American Victory Ship | 10 a.m.-5 p.m. | Tampa Riverwalk | $0-$15 | Hop aboard one of the last operational WWII cargo ships in the country. Check out the radio room and hospital, weaponry, and tons of artifacts scattered throughout the colossal ship parked right along the Tampa Riverwalk.

Memorial Day Miles | 8:30-10 a.m. | St. Pete Running Company | Free | Kick off the holiday with some morning miles + demo a brand-new pair of Nikes, make a custom heat-pressed shirt, enter a giveaway for free sneaks, and try a snow cone. Friendly dogs, kiddos, and walkers are welcome.

Memorial Day Ceremony | 11:30 a.m. | American Legion Post 238, Safety Harbor | Donations accepted | Mark the day’s significance at the American Legion for posting of the colors, a reading of departed comrades, and the folding of the American flag. Then mingle and enjoy a pig roast with “all the sides.”

Memorial Day Commemoration | 2:30 p.m. | Veterans Park, Gulfport | Free | Meditate over a stroll down the memorial brick walk and take in speeches by two area veterans + a “Taps Across America” performance at 3 p.m.

Memorial Day Market | 1-5 p.m. | Yuengling Draft Haus & Kitchen | Free entry | Shop from a variety of local vendors, sip on brews, and pick up eats on the brewery’s massive outdoor patio.

Memorial Day Paddle & Picnic | 2828 Pinellas Bayway S., Tierra Verde | Registration required, prices vary | Spend some time enjoying America’s beauty with a guided paddle to Shell Key through scenic mangroves and picnic by the bay (with grilled hot dogs).

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