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Memorial Day Weekend at Vicksburg National Military Park
Vicksburg National Cemetery
NPS/ C. Fields
Each year, The National Park Service and the Friends of Vicksburg National Military Park & Campaign host events at Vicksburg National Military Park in observance of Memorial Day.
This year we are celebrating the 250th anniversary of American independence in 2026.
Since 1776, the aspirational ideals of freedom, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness have guided the nation’s development. Parks illuminate how these ideals were challenged, expanded, and redefined through historical figures, founding documents, and defining milestones.
All events are weather-dependent
2026 Schedule of Events
Flag Placement in the National Cemetery
Date: Friday, May 22, 2026
Time: 8:00am – 12:00pm. Check-in begins at 7:30am.
Please check back for information on how to register for Vicksburg National Military Park’s Memorial Day Flag Placement Event.
Located within Vicksburg National Military Park, Vicksburg National Cemetery is the final resting place for over 18,000 U.S. Veterans – 17,000 of those being Union Civil War soldiers – a number unmatched by any other Civil War National Cemetery.
Every year on the Friday before Memorial Day, a United States flag is placed at each individual grave site in remembrance of the sacrifice so many have made for our country. Join other volunteers, National Park Service staff, and the Friends of Vicksburg National Military Park & Campaign in continuing this tradition.
Assaults Anniversary Battle Walks
The Union Assault on the 2nd Texas Lunette, May 22, 1863
Date: Friday, May 22, 2026 Time: 2 PM
Location: Visitor Center
Join Ranger Peter Winfrey on a detailed walk of the grounds as we discuss William P. Benton’s and Stephen G. Burbridge’s Brigades’ May 22 assault on the 2nd Texas Lunette. Learn about the successes, failures, and stories of this dramatic fight for this small fort guarding access into Vicksburg. May travel over uneven terrain.
Battle for the Stockade Redan, May 22, 1863
Date: Saturday May 23, 2026 Time: 10 AM
Location: Tour Stop # 10 – Stockade Redan
Join Licensed Battlefield Guide Tony Morgan to explore the stories of the Union assault on the Confederate stronghold guarding Graveyard Road. Meet at Tour Stop #10 - Stockade Redan. This walking tour will cover approximately 1 mile. May travel over uneven terrain.
Railroad Redoubt Assault
Date: Saturday May 23, 2026 Time: 2:00 PM
Location: Tour Stop #13 – Railroad Redoubt
Join Licensed Battlefield Guide Skipper Guizerix and learn about the Union Assault on the Confederate fort guarding the railroad into Vicksburg, from the initial Union breakthrough to the recapture of the redoubt by Texas Confederates. Meet at Tour Stop #13 - Railroad Redoubt. This walking tour may travel over uneven terrain.
All walks: Please wear appropriate footwear, and be prepared for weather conditions by bringing a hat and plenty of water.
The King of Battle: Artillery Drill and Firing Demonstrations
Date: Saturday, May 23, 2026 Time: 9AM, 10AM, and 11AM
Location: Living History Demonstration area next to Visitor Center
Experience the power and awe of Civil War artillery. Hear, feel, and smell the blast of a 12-lb Napoleon cannon. Learn about teamwork of an artillery crew and the importance of artillery during the Siege of Vicksburg.
Symphony at Sunset
NPS/ C. Fields
Symphony at Sunset
Date: Saturday, May 23, 2026
Time: 7:00pm
Vicksburg National Military Park is partnering with the Friends of Vicksburg National Military Park and Campaign, Four Seasons of the Arts, and the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra (MSO) to provide an outdoor pops concert on the grounds of the park free of charge. There will also be kid friendly activity stations. The concert will be on Saturday, May 24, 2025 at 7:00pm in front of the Vicksburg NMP Visitor Center at 3201 Clay Street. Tickets and registration are not required to attend the concert.
