Memorial Day is observed on Monday, May 27, 2024 to commemorate those who have fallen in service to the country. While this is considered the unofficial start to summer for many families, it's also a time to reflect on the sacrifices made to secure our freedom. Check out our guide to Memorial Day Weekend events in Southwest Louisiana from exploring our memorial parks to lively summer celebrations!
Cabana Crawl at L'Auberge
Friday May 24, 2024 | L'Auberge Casino Resort
It's time once again to CRAWL to L'Auberge! Cabana Crawl is back featuring the best brews, sensational spirits, and live entertainment! Purchase tickets here.
Downtown at Sundown Concert Series
Friday, May 24 | Downtown Lake Charles
This is a free, family-friendly concert series taking place each Friday from May 24-June 14. The performances are held from 6-9 p.m. in front of the 1911 Historic City Hall Arts & Cultural Center at 1001 Ryan Street. Attendees can enjoy live music, food and craft vendors, tabletop galleries, children's activities, and more. Nicki Needham & the People's Victory will headline this evening.
Southwest Louisiana Farmers Markets
Saturday, May 25 | Various Locations
Spend your Saturday morning shopping at three Lake Area farmers markets, sifting through handmade crafts, home goods, fresh produce, and homemade food items. Choose from the following farmers markets:Westlake, Charlestown, and Moss Bluff. Admission is free!
Zydeco and Jazz Brunches
Sunday, May 26 | Various Locations
Sundays are for Brunch! With multiple delicious restaurants to choose from, making a selection can be daunting. You should consider narrowing down the list for an option featuring live entertainment. For a lively brunch date try Rikenjaks'Sunday Funday Zydeco Brunch featuring Zydecane in central Lake Charles. For a soulful brunch date visit Tia Juanita's Fish Camp or Luna Bar & Grill's Sunday Jazz Brunches. Both are in downtown Lake Charles within walking distance from boutiques, shops, and the lakefront.
Avenue of Flags Memorial Day Celebration
Monday, May 27 | Orange Grove Cemetery
The Avenue of Flags returns for its 40th year to respectfully display the American Flag and honor United States Veterans of all branches of the military. This stunning display of patriotism features flags flown on both sides of the graveled roads winding through Orange Grove Graceland Cemetery. Flags are raised at sunrise; 6:00 AM and retired at 5:00 PM before sunset. Visitors are encouraged to tour the Avenue of Flags by walking, cycling, or driving alongside the gravel roads.
Visit A Memorial Park in Southwest Louisiana
Monday, May 27 | Various Locations
Southwest Louisiana is home to two memorial parks dedicated to veterans from the State of Louisiana. The DeQuincy Veterans Memorial Park centerpiece is a monument standing at 22 feet tall and paying homage to the raising of the American Flag at Mt. Suribachi in Iwo Jima. Iwo Jima, a small island located in the Pacific, held one of World War II's bloodiest battles. This replication represents one of the most iconic scenes of the American War effort in the Pacific. The park is home to walking paths, benches, and several monuments naming area veterans.
The Veterans Memorial Park is located along the lakefront just behind the Lake Charles Event Center. The park features engraved bricks representing those who have served in the United States military dating back to WWI and a fountain with bronze plaques of all Louisiana Medal of Honor recipients. In the center of the park is a statue of First Lt. Douglas B. Fournet, a Lake Charles native, and Medal of Honor recipient. There is also a Vietnam War-era Huey Helicopter, 8-inch Howitzer M115 cannon, and a WWII Patton Tank.
No matter how you plan to celebrate remember to pause and reflect on its purpose. Visit Lake Charles wishes you a meaningful and safe Memorial Day Weekend! Browse our event calendar for a full list of things happening Memorial Day Weekend. For other summer trip inspiration check out our Summer Trip Guide.
