Community events honor service members with a downtown parade, cemetery ceremony, and the return of Southport’s nightly flag‑folding ritual at Waterfront Park.
Southport, NC — Memorial Day with a full morning of remembrance in Southport on Monday, May 25, 2026, bringing residents, visitors, veterans, and civic groups together for two cornerstone traditions: the annual Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony at John N. Smith Cemetery, and the seasonal return of the city’s nightly Flag Lowering Ceremony at Waterfront Park.
Memorial Day Parade – 10:00 a.m.
Hosted by the John N. Smith Cemetery Preservation & Restoration, Inc. and the Bellamy/Joyner American Legion Post of Southport, the parade invites the entire community to participate. Golf carts, bicycles, walking groups, and local organizations are all welcome.
– Parade Lineup: 9:30 a.m. at the ILA Hall parking lot located at 10th & Lord Streets
– Route: 10th Street → Howe Street → E. Leonard Street → ending at John N. Smith Cemetery
The parade concludes at the historic cemetery, where Southport’s Memorial Day ceremony will immediately follow.
Memorial Day Ceremony – 11:00 a.m.
Held at John N. Smith Cemetery located at 225 E. Leonard Street; the ceremony offers a moment of reflection and gratitude for those who served and sacrificed. Community members, veterans, families, and local leaders gather each year to honor the meaning of the holiday in one of Southport’s most significant historic spaces.
Southport Flag Lowering Ceremony
Beginning Memorial Day and continuing nightly through Labor Day, Southport’s Flag Lowering Ceremony resumes at 7:30 p.m. (weather permitting) at Waterfront Park.
Hosted by the Southport Police Department and led by the Sisters of Southport, the ceremony features the respectful folding of the American flag at sunset. Civic groups, nonprofits, veterans’ organizations, scouts, faith groups, first responders, and community partners participate throughout the season.
The long‑standing tradition is described as “a time to reflect, a time to remember, a time to honor,” offering residents and visitors a quiet, meaningful close to each summer evening.
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