We will never forget this Memorial Day weekend. While typically a three-day tradition that marks the unofficial start of summer with outdoor celebrations and parades, this year when we honor those who have lost their lives while serving in the military, it will have to be from home. With Southern California and the rest of the world still edging toward a new normal during COVID-19, events to celebrate Memorial Day on May 25 have moved to digital platforms. From virtual dedications to live-streamed concerts, there are many ways to enjoy the holiday safely.
Dedicate a digital poppy
The red poppy flower came to signify remembrance almost a century ago, influenced by the First World War poem entitled In Flanders Fields. This year the site PoppyInMemory.com offers multiple virtual ways to pay tribute to those who have lost their lives while serving our country, including dedicating a digital poppy to a fallen hero or simply educating yourself about the battles they fought and the lives that were lost.
Watch the New West Symphony Memorial Day Concert
Curated and under the direction of Grammy-winning music director Michael Christie, the New West Symphony is performing a virtual Memorial Day concert May 25 live from the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library. People who register can provide a veteran’s name and it will be shared during the event. Such classics as America the Beautiful as well as Bernstein’s Somewhere from West Side Story are expected to be performed by special guests Sean Chen on piano and Grammy-winning soprano Jessica Rivera.
Take in the National Memorial Day Concert
It won’t be taking place on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol this year, but the annual National Memorial Day Concert is still being broadcast May 24 on PBS. Gary Sinise and Joe Mantegna and Gary Sinise are hosting the event, which will feature fresh performances and new tributes from various locations around the country. As well, it will look back at past concerts.
Listen to military heroes tell their stories
According to its website, with its Military Voices Initiative, StoryCorps — a non-profit organization that aims to record, preserve and share the stories of Americans from all backgrounds — wants to provide “a platform for veterans, service members, and military families to share their stories. In doing so we honor their voices, amplify their experiences, and let them know that we — as a nation — are listening.”
And if you do leave the house, do so safely
Southern Californians should stay close to home and cover their faces when outside. But the recent re-openings of trails, beaches and some national and state parks will certainly lure people from their homes. If you do head out, remember to wear a face covering while practicing physical distancing. Here is a brief rundown of what is open to the public:
– National parks: California’s favorite parks are only starting to allow visitors. First among them: Joshua Tree, which has reopened its road, trails and some campsites.
– State parks: The Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area in the Baldwin Hills area of L.A. is open. State parks which remain closed include the Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve.
– National forests: Southern California’s four forests — Angeles, Cleveland, Los Padres and San Bernardino — vary on trail access and parking. Check their websites for the latest updates.
– Farmers Markets: About 34 farmers markets are open in the city, including the Historic Downtown L.A. Farmers’ Market.
– Beaches: In L.A. County, as in Orange and Ventura counties, beaches are open for swimming, surfing, running and walking. But don’t linger.
– Griffith Park: The trails have reopened, but the observatory is closed.
– Santa Monica Mountains: The trails, parking lots and restrooms of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area are open again. The visitor centers remain shuttered.