Fire up the grill and break out the BBQ! Some people consider Memorial Day as the official start of summer, but the day is very important to not take for granted; it's a day to honor and celebrate the military members who have fought for our country. From cooking up hot dogs on the grill, hosting picnics, and volunteering throughout the communities, Memorial Day can be commemorated in many ways in Baton Rouge.
Here are a few events that you can check out this weekend leading up to Memorial Day 2025:
Live After Five
Friday, May 23
Kick off the holiday weekend with Live After Five, featuring sounds from blues pianist Hannah PK, Lazarro Nettles and more! Close out the spring season at Rhorer Plaza in downtown Baton Rouge, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, May 23. Trust us, you don't want to miss this jam packed finale!
Blue Star Mothers Flag Ceremony
Saturday, May 24
Honor those who sacrificed so much for us at this year’s flag ceremony at the Louisiana State Capitol. “Hero Hump” is a 6-mile march where current and former military members carry flags starting at 5 in the morning from the Memorial Tower on Louisiana State University's campus to the Blue Star Mothers (BSM) of Louisiana at the State Capitol grounds. The members will carry over 11,000 flags to pay homage to Louisiana’s fallen heroes from past wars. Volunteers will plant the flags and then read of names of military members from 9/11 to present day. The ceremony will start around 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 25.
The 121's Dueling Pianos
Saturday, May 24
The 121 event venue is hosting an unforgettable evening of music and entertainment and bringing back their Dueling Pianos event, performed by 88 Reasons Why. Get ready to experience the thrill of two talented pianists battling it out, playing your favorite songs and taking your requests. Whether you're a fan of rock, pop, country, or classics, these pianists will have you singing along and dancing in no time.
The Michael Foster Project at The Queen
Saturday, May 24
Celebrate Memorial Day weekend with an unforgettable night of live music at The Queen Baton Rouge! Catch a high-energy performance by The Michael Foster Project, one of Baton Rouge’s most iconic brass bands, known for blending jazz, funk, and soul into an electrifying show that keeps the crowd moving. Tickets start at $10 and the performance will kick off at 9 p.m.
Movies & Music on the Lawn
Saturday, May 24
Celebrate Memorial Day weekend with the final installment of Movies & Music on the Lawn at Baton Rouge Gallery on Saturday. Enjoy a free outdoor screening of the 2022 cult comedy Hundreds of Beavers, accompanied by a live original score from Baton Rouge's own Breadstick Space Opera. This performance will also feature live foley effects by Clay Achee and Michael Russo. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets and enjoy bottomless popcorn under the stars!
Baton Rouge Concert Band Memorial Day Concert
Monday, May 26
Join the Baton Rouge Concert Band for a heartfelt evening of music and remembrance at its annual Memorial Day Concert, taking place Monday, May 26 at 7 p.m. at the Main Library at Goodwood. This free community event honors the brave men and women of the armed forces who gave their lives in service to our country. The evening’s program will feature a powerful selection of patriotic tunes, emotional tributes, and traditional marches—all carefully chosen to reflect the spirit of Memorial Day.
