10 Must-See Memorial Day Weekend Events in New England

Are you looking for Memorial Day weekend events? The three-day holiday offers the perfect opportunity to kick off summer while honoring those who served our nation.

Instead of the typical backyard barbecue, New England offers an impressive array of festivals, races, art shows, and cultural celebrations for the 2025 holiday weekend. Whether you’re a foodie, art enthusiast, history buff, or outdoor adventurer, there’s something for everyone across the six northeastern states.

From the enchanting illuminated rivers of Providence to the medieval fantasy world of Connecticut, these ten handpicked events showcase the region’s rich culture and spectacular landscapes. Additionally, many events honor veterans and military service members with special tributes and ceremonies, keeping the true spirit of Memorial Day alive while creating unforgettable experiences.

Pack your weekend with these must-see attractions that perfectly balance celebration, remembrance, and the unofficial start of summer in New England.

Waterfire Providence, Rhode Island

Fire meets water in one of New England’s most mesmerizing Memorial Day weekend spectacles. WaterFire Providence transforms downtown rivers into an enchanting display of over 100 bonfires floating just above the water’s surface.

Waterfire Providence event overview

Created by artist Barnaby Evans, WaterFire celebrates its landmark 30th anniversary season in 2025. This award-winning fire sculpture installation illuminates nearly two-thirds of a mile of urban public spaces along Providence’s three rivers. Throughout the evening, black-clad performers in torch-lit vessels silently tend the flames while hauntingly beautiful music fills the air. The installation has been described as “the most popular work of art created in the capital city’s 371-year history”, attracting almost one million visitors annually.

Waterfire Providence location & dates

For Memorial Day weekend 2025, catch the first full lighting of the season on Saturday, May 31. The event begins at 7:00 PM with sunset and fire-lighting at 8:14 PM, continuing until midnight. The installation stretches from Waterplace Park through downtown Providence to Memorial/South Main Street Park. Visitors can stroll along riverwalks that offer constantly changing perspectives of the flickering flames.

Waterfire Providence ticket info

The most remarkable aspect of this world-class art installation is that it’s free to attend. The nonprofit organization relies on donations and sponsorships to keep the fires burning. Visitors who donate $5 or more receive a luminous blue “Ribbon of Light” to wear, becoming part of the artwork themselves.

Why you should attend Waterfire Providence

WaterFire delivers a whole sensory experience:

• The crackling sounds of cedar and pine burning over water
• The aromatic fragrance of wood smoke mingling with the night air
• The mesmerizing dance of firelight reflected on arched bridges
• The haunting musical soundtrack from around the world

Beyond its artistic merit, WaterFire generates significant economic impact—$149 million annually for local businesses and supporting 1,294 Rhode Island jobs. It’s not just an art installation but a community celebration that brings people together in Providence’s vibrant downtown.

ArtWeek Berkshires, Massachusetts

Creativity blooms across the Berkshires this Memorial Day weekend during the fifth annual ArtWeek Berkshires, offering artistic immersion for visitors seeking meaningful holiday experiences.

ArtWeek Berkshires event overview

This countywide celebration showcases local artistic talent through more than 100 hands-on and interactive experiences. Unlike typical gallery visits, ArtWeek emphasizes behind-the-scenes access and participatory activities. Visitors can enjoy a diverse array of creative expressions, including:

• Gallery exhibitions and artist demonstrations
• Live music and theatrical performances
• Poetry readings and spoken word events
• Painting demonstrations and workshops
• Open studios with artist interactions

The festival represents a collaborative effort organized by the five Cultural Districts of Berkshire County and promoted by 1Berkshire.

ArtWeek Berkshires location & dates

The 2025 celebration runs from May 16 through May 26, spanning Memorial Day weekend. Events occur throughout Berkshire County, with activities distributed across northern, central, and southern regions. The festival’s website provides helpful search tools allowing visitors to filter events by town, date, or artistic medium to create personalized routes.

ArtWeek Berkshires ticket info

Most open studios and events are free to the public, making this an affordable holiday weekend option. Some specialized workshops or performances may require advance tickets or charge nominal fees. However, organizers encourage artists to keep costs low, “in keeping with our mission that ArtWeek is accessible to everyone”.

Why you should attend ArtWeek Berkshires

Beyond supporting local artists during economically challenging times, ArtWeek offers unique perspectives into creative processes. The Open Studios Series particularly invites visitors into artists’ workspaces to observe demonstrations and interact with creators.

Furthermore, the festival’s timing coincides perfectly with spring renewal in the Berkshires’ beautiful landscape. From illuminated pavilions in North Adams to plein-air painting demonstrations throughout the region, visitors experience art amid the backdrop of one of New England’s most scenic areas.

Wildquack Duck Race & Music Festival, New Hampshire

Thousands of bright yellow rubber ducks race down Jackson Falls each Memorial Day weekend, creating one of New Hampshire’s most beloved and quirky holiday traditions.

Wildquack Duck Race event overview

The 34th annual Wildquack Duck Race & Music Festival transforms Jackson Village into a vibrant celebration on Sunday, May 25, 2025. This full-day community event combines whimsical duck racing with family entertainment, featuring approximately 3,500 rubber duckies tumbling down Jackson Falls. Beyond the main attraction, visitors enjoy live music from local favorites Al Shafner and Dennis & Davey, a growing parade, kids’ games, silent auction tables, and visits with “Wildquack” – the official duck mascot.

The event schedule packs the entire day, starting at 8:00 AM with activities throughout the morning. The highlight begins at 1:30 PM when the parade starts from the Covered Bridge, followed by the first duck race at 1:45 PM.

Wildquack Duck Race location & dates

Set for Sunday, May 25, 2025, in picturesque Jackson Village, New Hampshire, the festival centers around Route 16A in Jackson Village Park . The duck races occur on the Wildcat River, with the main race starting just above the Stone Bridge on Main Street. Jackson Village is accessible by crossing either a stone bridge or a wooden covered bridge, adding to its quintessential New England charm.

Wildquack Duck Race ticket info

Admission to this “old-fashioned Day in the Park” remains completely FREE. To participate in the duck races, visitors can purchase duck entries for $6.00 each or four for $20.00. The stakes are surprisingly high, with more than $10,000 given out in cash and prizes. First-prize winners receive $1,000 cash, plus opportunities to win overnight getaways, ski passes, golf passes, dining gift certificates, and train rides. Importantly, purchasers need not be present to win.

Why you should attend the Wildquack Duck Race

This event offers an authentic slice of New England village life rarely found elsewhere. Visitors can enjoy:

• Affordably priced fair foods, including BBQ, kettle corn, ice cream, and lobster sandwiches
• An “ever-growing” parade with community spirit
• Family-friendly atmosphere with games for all ages
• Opportunity to bid on unique items at the silent auction tables
• Chance to kick off summer while supporting the Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce’s major fundraising event

As the unofficial start to summer in the White Mountains region, this solid day of free fun represents small-town New England at its most charming and whimsical.

Robin Hood’s Medieval Faire, Connecticut

Step back to medieval England at Robin Hood’s Medieval Faire, where history and fantasy collide to create one of Connecticut’s most immersive Memorial Day weekend events.

Robin Hood’s Faire event overview

Robin Hood’s Medieval Faire transports visitors to Sherwood Forest with its 13th-century village recreation, with period-accurate entertainment and interactive experiences. The fair features over 70 talented performers, including jousting knights, wandering minstrels, comedic jesters, and skilled archers demonstrating their craft. Moreover, guests can explore merchant lanes filled with artisans selling handcrafted wares, from metalwork to leather goods and jewelry.

Throughout the day, five performance stages host continuous shows ranging from sword-fighting demonstrations to musical performances and storytelling sessions. For those seeking hands-on experiences, the fair offers ax-throwing competitions, archery lessons, and medieval games of skill appropriate for all ages.

Robin Hood’s Faire location & dates

Located at the Lebanon County Fairgrounds in Lebanon, Connecticut, the 2025 fair runs throughout Memorial Day weekend—Saturday through Monday, May 24-26. The gates open at 11:00 AM daily, and festivities continue until 7:00 PM, providing ample time to experience the entire village. The fairgrounds offer free parking, so visitors can arrive at their convenience without worrying about time restrictions.

Robin Hood’s Faire ticket info

Adult tickets (ages 16+) cost $20 when purchased online in advance or $25 at the gate. Children’s tickets (ages 7-15) are priced at $12, with kids under 6 entering free. In essence, families benefit from purchasing the Family Four Pack at $58, which includes two adult and two child admissions. Active military members and veterans receive a special discount of $5 off with valid identification—a fitting tribute for Memorial Day weekend.

Why you should attend Robin Hood’s Faire

The fair offers distinctive experiences unlike typical holiday events:

• Fully armored knights on horseback performing authentic jousting tournaments
• Interactive storylines where visitors become part of Robin Hood’s merry band
• Mead hall and taverns serving period-inspired foods and beverages
• Educational demonstrations of medieval crafts and weapons

In addition to entertainment value, the fair provides a glimpse into history through immersive experiences rather than passive observation. Despite its historical setting, the fair incorporates modern comforts, including accessible facilities and diverse food options, making it appropriate for visitors of all ages and interests.

Atlantis Rising Sand Sculpting Festival, Rhode Island

Sand transforms into art at one of Rhode Island’s most unique Memorial Day weekend celebrations, where master sculptors compete to create mystical landscapes from simple grains.

Atlantis Rising event overview

The Atlantis Rising International Sand Sculpture Competition brings together 10 internationally renowned master sand sculptors competing for a cash prize determined by public vote. This three-day, family-friendly festival transforms Ninigret Park into an open-air art gallery carved entirely from sand. Visitors receive colored beans to cast votes for their favorite sculptures, with the People’s Choice winner announced on the final day.

Beyond the impressive sculptures, the festival offers a complete entertainment experience. The 2025 theme is “enchanted garden,” encouraging visitors to dress as their favorite fairytale characters. Throughout the weekend, guests enjoy:

• Live music performances including Sugar, Steve Smith & the Nakeds, and Room Full of Blues
• Food trucks and artisan craft vendors selling local goods
• Caricature artists and celebrity photo opportunities
• Interactive zones like The Pirate Cove and The Ring of Faerie
• Sand sculpting lessons for all ages

Atlantis Rising location & dates

The 2025 festival takes place at Ninigret Park, 5 Park Lane, Charlestown, RI 02813, over three days :

• Friday, May 30: 12:00 PM – 7:30 PM
• Saturday, May 31: 10:00 AM – 7:30 PM
• Sunday, June 1: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

The event is held rain or shine, as experienced sculptors are accustomed to working in various weather conditions [15].

Atlantis Rising ticket info

Tickets are available at the entrance gate with no advance purchase necessary [2]:

• $15.00 for adults and children over 10
• $7.00 for children ages 6-10
• Free for children five and under

Upon entry, visitors receive a stamp allowing same-day re-entry and a colored bean for voting [2].

Why you should attend Atlantis Rising

This festival offers a rare opportunity to witness sand art at its highest level. Formerly held at Misquamicut State Beach in Westerly, it has grown so popular that it now draws more than 40,000 attendees. Combining artistic talent, family activities, and live entertainment creates a perfect Memorial Day weekend experience.

Furthermore, the event’s interactive nature—from voting for favorites to learning sand sculpting techniques—makes it especially engaging. The festival concludes with awards ceremonies on Sunday, including the judges’ selections at 2:00 PM and the People’s Choice Award at 5:00 PM.

33rd Annual Memorial Day Craft Festival, New Hampshire

Artisan creativity takes center stage at one of New Hampshire’s finest Memorial Day weekend traditions, showcasing handcrafted treasures in a picturesque lakeside setting.

Memorial Day Craft Festival overview

The 33rd Annual Memorial Day Craft Festival transforms Mill Falls Marketplace into a vibrant celebration of craftsmanship and culinary artistry. This three-day event features over 100 juried artisans from New England displaying their American-made works. Visitors discover an impressive array of handcrafted items, including:

• Fine jewelry, functional pottery, and creative wall art
• Hand-thrown pottery and genuine gemstone jewelry
• Textile handbags, scarves, and wearable accessories
• Original paintings and photography
• Handcrafted brooms and live-edge furniture

The festival simultaneously offers a feast for food enthusiasts with specialty treats ranging from hot sauces (as featured on HOT ONES!) to all-natural fruit jams, wine slushy mixes, and farm-made baked goods.

Craft Festival location & dates

Set against New Hampshire’s scenic lakes region backdrop, the festival runs May 24-26, 2025, at Mill Falls Marketplace. Located at 312 Daniel Webster Highway in Meredith, NH, the event is easily accessible from Interstate 93 via Exit 23 .

Festival hours vary throughout the weekend :

• Saturday: 10 AM to 6 PM
• Sunday: 10 AM to 5 PM
• Monday: 10 AM to 4 PM

Craft Festival ticket info

This award-winning festival remains free and open to the public. It runs rain or shine, making it a reliable holiday weekend option regardless of the weather.

Why you should attend the Craft Festival

Beyond supporting local artisans, the festival offers a quintessentially New England experience. Located directly across from Lake Winnipesaukee, visitors enjoy the region’s natural beauty and creative works.

Families appreciate that well-behaved pets on leashes are welcome to join the festivities. Afterward, guests can explore Mill Falls Marketplace’s unique shops, enjoy picturesque waterfall views, and experience the charm of Meredith.

The festival kickstarts summer with the perfect blend of handmade art, delicious treats, and a festive atmosphere, making it an ideal addition to any Memorial Day weekend itinerary.

Newport Mansions Wine & Food Festival, Rhode Island

Indulge your senses at the crown jewel of New England’s culinary scene. The Newport Mansions Wine & Food Festival celebrates its milestone 20th anniversary in 2025, offering connoisseurs a sophisticated Memorial Day weekend event option.

Newport Wine & Food Festival Overview

The Newport Mansions Wine & Food Festival is one of New England’s premier culinary gatherings. The 2025 edition marks a significant milestone, celebrating two decades of exceptional food and wine experiences. At the heart of this prestigious event are nearly two dozen expert-led tasting seminars featuring wines from around the world, accompanied by select beers, cocktails, spirits, and culinary delights. Attendees can sample offerings from numerous vendors and restaurants in the well-stocked Tasting Tent, creating an immersive experience for food and wine enthusiasts.

Newport Festival location & dates

Mark your calendars for September 19-21, 2025, when this celebrated festival returns to the spectacular Rosecliff mansion in Newport, Rhode Island. This stunning venue on Newport’s iconic Bellevue Avenue provides an elegant backdrop for the festivities. Following the success of previous years, Rosecliff’s Louis XV-style Ballroom and other spaces will transform into sophisticated tasting venues where guests can sample world-class wines while surrounded by Gilded Age opulence.

Newport Festival ticket info

While specific ticket prices for 2025 haven’t been announced, tickets will become available in July 2025. Based on previous years, expect various ticket options, including individual seminar tickets and all-inclusive packages. Primarily, Preservation Society members receive early access to purchase tickets before they become available to the general public. Early booking is highly recommended given the popularity of signature events like the Connoisseur’s Dinner, Vintner Dinner, and Sunday Jazz Brunch.

Why you should attend the Newport Festival

Above all, this festival delivers an unparalleled combination of fine wines, gourmet cuisine, and historic elegance. Furthermore, the event will feature the return of signature experiences, including the Connoisseur’s Dinner, Vintner Dinner, and Sunday Jazz Brunch. Local fine restaurants will also host special dinners featuring unique wine pairings and specially designed menus. The festival represents more than just tastings—it’s an opportunity to learn from experts, meet fellow enthusiasts, and experience Newport’s legendary mansions in a festive atmosphere as summer transitions to fall.

Portsmouth 5K & Chowderfest, New Hampshire

Community spirit meets athletic challenge and culinary competition at two signature Portsmouth events, which anchor the start of New Hampshire’s summer season.

Portsmouth 5K & Chowderfest overview

Portsmouth’s iconic late-spring celebrations offer distinct experiences for runners and food enthusiasts alike. The Portsmouth 5K is primarily a community fundraiser supporting Krempels Brain Injury Center, a vital organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for people living with brain injuries. Since its inception, this legacy road race has raised over a million dollars for this nonprofit.

Separately, the 38th Annual 97.5 WOKQ Chowder Festival, presented by Avery Insurance, is one of New England’s most beloved culinary competitions. This taste-testing affair has become a regional institution, with approximately 16 restaurants competing for the coveted “Golden Ladle” award. Winners proudly display this trophy “loud and proud in their window—it’s good bragging rights for the community” .

Portsmouth event location & dates

The Portsmouth 5K kicks off at 9:30 AM on Sunday, May 25, 2025, at Paddy’s American Grille (27 International Drive, Portsmouth). This flat, fast course attracts both competitive and recreational runners.

Subsequently, the Chowder Festival takes place on Saturday, June 7, 2025, starting at 11:30 AM at Prescott Park (105 Marcy Street, Portsmouth) . The festival continues until the chowder runs out—typically mid-afternoon.

Portsmouth event ticket info

For the 5K, adult registration costs between $31.41 (early bird) and $42.11 (last-minute), while youth registration remains steady at $23.39. Furthermore, over 80% of members receive financial aid from Krempels Brain Injury Center, with half attending programs entirely free thanks to race proceeds.

Chowder Festival tickets cost $20.00 per person. They grant unlimited samples of all competing chowders plus a voting ballot. The pass holder special for 2025 is buy one ticket, get one free. This popular event sold out in 2024, so early ticket purchase is recommended.

Why you should attend Portsmouth 5K & Chowderfest

These events showcase Portsmouth’s vibrant community spirit. The 5K features post-race festivities, including snacks, beverages, and camaraderie. Meanwhile, the Chowder Festival offers:

• Live music and entertainment
• Family-friendly activities, including giant lawn games and face painting
• Concessions selling ice cream, lemonade, and other treats

Accordingly, participating in either event supports crucial local causes—the 5K aids brain injury survivors. At the same time, the Chowder Festival serves as one of the largest fundraisers for Prescott Park Arts Festival. Together, these events perfectly capture Portsmouth’s blend of active lifestyle, culinary excellence, and community spirit.

Spring Open Studio Weekend, Vermont

Explore Vermont’s vibrant creative community as artists throughout the Green Mountain State open their private studios for a rare behind-the-scenes Memorial Day weekend experience.

Spring Open Studio Overview

The Vermont Crafts Council’s Spring Open Studio Weekend invites visitors to discover the artistic process firsthand throughout the state. This self-guided tour features the work of more than 250 Vermont artists who open their workspaces to share their tools, equipment, and creative inspirations with the public. Visitors can explore artists’ studios, including glassblowers, jewelers, printmakers, potters, furniture makers, weavers, ironworkers, painters, sculptors, quilt makers, and wood carvers. Many galleries and art centers also participate, hosting special exhibits and demonstrations for the weekend.

Open Studio location & dates

The 2025 Spring Open Studio Weekend occurs Saturday and Sunday, May 24-25, throughout Vermont. The event runs from 10 AM to 5 PM daily. Certainly, one of the most distinctive aspects is how the tour spans the entire state, from small towns to remote back roads. Visitors follow bright yellow wayfinder signs to participating locations with 15 suggested tour loops available for planning. These carefully designed routes allow travelers to explore multiple studios within an afternoon, a full day, or an entire weekend.

Open Studio ticket info

Perhaps the most appealing aspect for budget-conscious travelers: Spring Open Studio Weekend remains completely free for visitors. No admission fees are charged at any location . Free maps can be downloaded online or obtained at tourist information centers, chambers of commerce, welcome centers, galleries, and participating studios . Alternatively, visitors can request printed guide materials by calling 802-223-3380 .

Why you should attend Spring Open Studio

This event offers a unique opportunity to experience artistic creation firsthand. It establishes a relationship with the creative process that can’t be duplicated at craft fairs or galleries. Many artists conduct demonstrations during the weekend, providing educational value alongside aesthetic enjoyment. Interestingly, some participating studios are only open to the public during this special event, making it a rare opportunity to see working artists in their natural environments.

Boston Harborfest, Massachusetts

Celebrate American independence, which began during Boston Harborfest, where historical significance meets festive celebrations in the cradle of the American Revolution.

Boston Harborfest overview

The 43rd Boston Harborfest is one of the country’s largest Fourth of July festivals, celebrating Boston’s maritime and revolutionary history. This family-friendly event features hundreds of activities over Independence Day week at Boston’s most iconic historic landmarks. Festivities include the ceremonial opening in Downtown Crossing, historical reenactments, an arts market, Chowderfest, live musical entertainment, and spectacular fireworks.

Living historians and local musical acts perform free concerts in Downtown Crossing, while interactive experiences allow visitors to engage directly with Boston’s revolutionary heritage. Families enjoy the dedicated children’s activities at Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park and browsing the adjacent Greenway Artisan Market.

Boston Harborfest location & dates

Mark your calendars for July 2-4, 2025, when Harborfest transforms downtown Boston into a patriotic celebration. Events occur across multiple venues, including Downtown Crossing, Christopher Columbus Park, the Rose Kennedy Greenway, and various waterfront locations.

Key scheduled events include:

• July 2: Kickoff ceremony at noon, followed by Harborfest Fireworks at 9:15 PM, launched from Long Wharf
• July 4: USS Constitution Museum special events, Boston’s 4th of July Procession from City Hall, and the traditional Reading of the Declaration of Independence

Boston Harborfest ticket info

Many Harborfest activities remain free, including the dazzling fireworks display, the opening ceremony, and the Declaration of Independence reading. Some specialized tours and experiences have admission fees, such as specific Freedom Trail site tours (typically around $15 per person) .

Why you should attend Boston Harborfest

Boston offers an unparalleled Independence Day experience in the city where the fight for American liberty began. Indeed, no other city celebrates July 4 with the same historical authenticity and passionate enthusiasm. The celebration perfectly balances honoring revolutionary heritage and creating a festive summer atmosphere.

Public transportation is highly recommended for visitors seeking convenient access, as parking is limited. Additionally, many hotels within walking distance of event locations offer special holiday weekend packages.

Conclusion

New England transforms during Memorial Day weekend 2025, offering experiences beyond traditional barbecues and beach trips. From the mesmerizing fire sculptures of WaterFire Providence to the medieval fantasy world of Robin Hood’s Faire, these ten events showcase the region’s remarkable diversity. Indeed, art enthusiasts will find paradise at ArtWeek Berkshires or Vermont’s Open Studio Weekend. At the same time, food lovers can savor award-winning chowders in Portsmouth or exclusive wine tastings at Newport’s historic mansions.

Whether you prefer watching thousands of rubber ducks race down Jackson Falls or exploring Boston’s revolutionary heritage, these carefully selected events provide meaningful ways to honor fallen service members while celebrating the unofficial start of summer. Most notably, many events remain completely free or offer special military discounts, making them accessible options for families and budget-conscious travelers alike.

The true magic of Memorial Day weekend in New England lies not just in individual attractions but in the region’s perfect blend of scenic beauty, cultural richness, and historical significance. Though planning might require mapping multiple states, the reward comes through experiences unavailable elsewhere – from illuminated rivers and medieval jousting to international sand sculpture competitions.

Plan your three-day weekend strategically to maximize these opportunities. Additionally, consider extending your stay to catch early June events like Portsmouth’s Chowderfest or Boston’s Harborfest. These signature New England celebrations promise unforgettable memories while honoring the holiday’s deeper meaning amid some of America’s most beautiful landscapes.