Memorial Day Weekend at FDR Sites

Here’s some unforgettable ways to observe Memorial Day weekend as the FDR Home, Presidential Library& Museum in Hyde Park hosts three very different events from Friday, May 23 to Monday, May 26.

Swing and Sway at the USO Show!

On Friday night in the Henry A. Wallace Center, dance and sing along to old favorites at their fifth annual USO show, patterned after the WWII-era shows that entertained American troops serving around the globe. The show features live Big Band music from the 1930s and '40s, comedy and juggling, historic newsreels and more. This evening of family fun kicks off the FDR Presidential Library and Home’s annual Memorial Day weekend activities. Fri. 5/23, 7pm, $5/suggested donation.

World War II Bivouac

The FDR Presidential Library lawn looks just like a real WWII encampment all weekend! Period military vehicles, including a Sherman tank, and soldiers in battle dress are on hand to share their love of history with World War II enthusiasts. Civilians are encouraged to look around and interact with the troops; ask questions, touch artifacts, and explore the military vehicles first-hand. Military uniforms, weapons, insignia, and vehicles from 1917 to the present day are on display; throughout the day re-enactors demonstrate military equipment and explain what life was like for military personnel in World War II.  The U.S. Military Academy at West Point mascots, the Army Mules, often participate. Sat.-Sun. 5/24-25, 9am-4pm. Free.

Rose Garden Memorial Service

On Memorial Day, the National Park Service hosts a memorial service at the Rose Garden gravesides of Franklin and Eleanor. Area organizations present wreaths in honor of President Roosevelt: March of Dimes, Hyde Park Chamber of Commerce, Town of Hyde Park, American Legion Post 1303, Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt Institute, FDR Presidential Library and Museum, National Park Service and Eleanor Roosevelt Center at Val-Kill. Mon. 5/26, 12:30pm. Free.

Admission of $14 is charged to tour the FDR Home & Presidential Library and Museum. It is located on Route 9 in Hyde Park. Call 800/337-8474 or 845/229-9115 or www.FDRLibrary.marist.edu