Memorial Day in New Jersey isn’t just a long weekend-it’s a chance to honor our nation’s heroes while welcoming in the warm weather. Held on the last Monday of May, Memorial Day is the unofficial start of summer, and the perfect opportunity to commemorate this meaningful holiday while creating treasured memories. The weekend is jam-packed with fun-filled events and festivals to kick off the summer season. Beaches are reopening and people are venturing outside with friends and family for barbecues and gatherings. Whether you’re a local or visiting, the Garden State or New York area, there’s no shortage of things to do to have a little fun this year. None can quite compare to a unique experience aboard a City Cruises yacht to say “hello” to summer while paying tribute to honor the fallen. Imagine cruising along the coast with your crew, drink in hand, surrounded by stunning views and an ultimate party vibe that can only be found on a boat. Let’s dive into your ultimate guide for things to do in the New Jersey/ New York area for an unforgettable Memorial Day on the water.
History of Memorial Day
Originally called Decoration Day, Memorial Day was first observed in 1868 to honor Civil War soldiers. Although it is the unofficial start of summer, there’s a
lot more meaning to it than hotdogs, beer, and good sales. Everyone dusts off their patio furniture. Pools and beaches reopen, and we are all inundated with sales ads. There are parades throughout the country, and families gathering in backyards for barbecues and picnics, but there is so much more to the holiday than this. General John A. Logan of the Grand Army of the Republic led the charge and began honoring fallen soldiers of the Civil War by decorating their graves with flowers and flags in late May when flowers started blooming. After WWI, Memorial Day expanded and all soldiers who have died in American wars were honored, and in 1971, it was officially named. The holiday moved to the last Monday in May under the 1968 Uniform Monday Holiday Act, and a three-day weekend for federal employees was created. Each year our nation’s flag is raised to half-staff from sunrise until noon and then lifted to full-staff to honor our country’s heroes and signify hope. Today most of us have parties or get outdoors, but the true meaning cannot be forgotten.
Sail Through Memorial Day with City Cruises New Jersey
Celebrating Memorial Day in the New Jersey/New York area offers a chance to honor those who have served while enjoying iconic skyline views of Manhattan and the scenic shores of New Jersey to kick off summer, providing the perfect blend of urban excitement and coastal charm for a memorable weekend. Whether savoring a champagne brunch while soaking up the midday sunshine or indulging in an evening dinner cruise complete with sunset views, City Cruises sets the perfect tone for the holiday, offering a memorable way to celebrate while reflecting and honoring our armed forces.
Let’s Do Brunch This Memorial Day
A world-class city deserves a world-class harbor cruise this Memorial Day. Come aboard our glass-enclosed Bateaux for the New York Premier Bottomless Brunch Cruise and be treated to a delectable a la carte menu, and jaw-dropping panoramic views of New York City’s skyline as you honor our country’s heroes. You will see iconic American landmarks up close, such as the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, Brooklyn Bridge, and One World Trade
Center, a perfect tribute to our nation’s history and spirit. As you marvel at Manhattan from the Hudson and East Rivers, enjoy tasty cocktails and live DJ entertainment, creating a unique holiday experience.
Memorial Day Dinner Cruises: Savor, Sail, and Honor
This year try something unique and fun for Memorial Day in the New Jersey/ New York area with a stunning dinner cruise, where you can enjoy gourmet cuisine, breathtaking skyline views, and a heartfelt tribute to the holiday on a City Cruises luxury yacht.
New York Premier Dinner Cruise
Come aboard the Atlantica yacht for a New York Premier Dinner Cruise and be treated to a delectable prix fixe menu, and incredible panoramic views of New York’s city skyline. Get a front-row seat on the water to our country’s most iconic landmarks while having a great time with refreshing cocktails and the sweet sounds of our superb vocalist and acoustic band. This is an exhilarating way to kick off summer while honoring Memorial Day.
New York Signature Dinner Cruise Pier 15
Our New York City Signature Dinner Cruise Pier 15 is an experience you will never forget and the perfect way to start your summer. Dine and dance on the Hudson and East Rivers with magnificent NYC skyline views on this casual evening out. Enjoy a delicious, chef-prepared buffet and gorgeous views of New York City’s spectacular architecture while cruising past famous landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty and One World Trade Center, inspiring a profound patriotism as you celebrate Memorial Day. Enjoy climate-controlled interiors or open-air roof decks. We will keep the spirits flowing with a fully stocked bar, games, and lively music from our DJ.
New York Bateaux Premier Plus Dinner Cruise
If you’re looking for an adventure on the water this holiday, then look no further than a New York Bateaux Premier Plus Dinner Cruise to set the tone for an
amazing summer while paying tribute to those who have paid the ultimate price. Savor a delicious prix-fixe menu and incredible views of The Big Apple from the water as you sail past Lady Liberty and more. Sway along to the music and prepare to create lifelong memories.
Honoring Heroes: Memorial Day Celebrations on the Water with City Cruises New Jersey 2025
Whether you are looking to pay respect to those who have sacrificed for our country’s freedom or escape from the traditional backyard barbecue scene, salute the holiday with a day of remembrance and unity while having a great time. City Cruises is your ultimate celebration partner for an experience that’s as meaningful as it is memorable-and all on the water. Have a great time with friends and family this year while honoring those soldiers who have died for our country and thank a veteran for their service to let them know they are appreciated.
