Blog Layout

Memorial Day in Ames, IA: Honoring Heroes and Embracing Community

May 23, 2024

Memorial Day is a time-honored tradition in the United States, dedicated to remembering and honoring the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. In the vibrant town of Ames, Iowa, this solemn yet celebratory day is observed with a blend of reverence, community spirit, and local charm.


A Town Steeped in Tradition

Ames, Iowa, is known for its strong sense of community and deep-rooted traditions. Each year, Memorial Day in Ames is marked by events that bring residents together to honor their fallen heroes and celebrate the freedoms those heroes fought to protect.


Memorial Day Parade

The Ames Patriotic Council presents an in-person and virtual Memorial Day Program on Monday, May 27th. The day kicks off with the annual Memorial Day Parade, which begins at Ames City Hall at 10:30 a.m. This vibrant procession winds its way through the town's main streets, creating a tapestry of red, white, and blue.


Local veterans, dressed in their uniforms, lead the parade, their presence a powerful reminder of the day's significance. Following them is the Ames High School marching band, community groups, and local businesses, all participating with decorated floats and patriotic displays. Families line the streets, waving flags and cheering as the parade passes by.


Ceremony at Municipal Cemetery

At 11 a.m., the parade culminates with a program at the Ames Municipal Cemetery. The featured speaker for this year's event is Army National Guard LTC Dan Runyon, Ret. The program will also include representatives of the City of Ames and American Legion Post #37, vocalist Jim DeHoet, and the Ames Municipal Band under the direction of Michael Golemo.


Local officials and veterans will deliver speeches, sharing stories of bravery and sacrifice. The highlight of the ceremony is the reading of names – a poignant tribute to local heroes who lost their lives in service. This moment of reflection is followed by a 21-gun salute and the playing of "Taps," ensuring that the sacrifices of these brave individuals are never forgotten.


Community Lunch

After the ceremony, lunch is provided at the American Legion Post #37, located at 225 Main St., in downtown Ames. This meal offers another opportunity for community members to come together and share in the day’s spirit.


Taking a Moment to Remember

Amidst the grilling out and relaxing, it's important to take a moment to remember the significance of Memorial Day. While the day provides an opportunity for fun and relaxation, the true purpose is to honor and remember those who have sacrificed their lives for our country. Whether it's a quiet moment of reflection, a shared story about a loved one who served, or a heartfelt conversation with a veteran, these acts of remembrance ensure that the legacy of our fallen heroes is never forgotten.


Embracing the Spirit of Memorial Day

In Ames, Iowa, Memorial Day is more than just a day off; it’s a day to come together as a community, to honor those who have sacrificed so much, and to celebrate the freedoms we enjoy. It’s a day where the past and present converge, and where the spirit of unity and patriotism shines brightly.

Whether you’re a resident of Ames or a visitor, experiencing Memorial Day in this vibrant town is a poignant reminder of what it means to be part of a community that honors its heroes and cherishes its heritage.


You might also like

By David Tapper February 13, 2025
February may be the shortest month of the year, but there’s no shortage of things to do in Ames! Whether you’re looking for a cozy way to spend the colder days or an exciting event to get you out and about, we’ve got you covered. Check out these fun activities happening this month: 1. Valentine’s Day Date Ideas 💕 Looking for the perfect way to celebrate Valentine’s Day? Whether you’re planning a romantic evening or a fun outing with friends, consider these ideas: Sweet Caroline’s – Enjoy delicious food and drinks in a cozy downtown setting. Ames Winter Farmers' Market – Pick up locally made treats for a thoughtful, unique gift. Ice Skating at Ames Ice Arena – Glide across the ice for a classic winter date night. 2. Beat the Winter Blues ❄️ Cold weather doesn’t mean you have to stay indoors all season! Here are some ways to stay active and enjoy the winter months: Bring yo u r friends and get creative with Maker Nights at Reiman Gardens ! Ledges State Park Winter Hike – Bundle up and explore the beauty of snow-covered trails. 3. Community Events to Check Out 🎉 Ames has a lot to offer this month! Mark your calendar for these community happenings: Trivia Nights at Local Bars & Cafés – Test your knowledge and win prizes at spots like London Underground and Torrent Brewing . Live Music at Prairie Moon Winery – Enjoy great tunes with a glass of local wine. No matter how you choose to spend February, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Stay warm, stay connected, and most importantly—love where you live! 💙 Looking for a new place to call home? Check out our latest available properties at Elite Property Management !
By Ben Knudson January 6, 2025
As the clock strikes midnight and we usher in a brand-new year, it’s hard not to feel a sense of hope and excitement. A new year is like a blank canvas, waiting for the colors of your dreams, goals, and actions to paint a masterpiece. 2025 is no different—it’s your chance to start fresh, dream big, and make it count, right here in Ames, Iowa. New Year’s resolutions often get a bad rap for being fleeting or overly ambitious, but they’re also a powerful way to set the tone for the year ahead. Whether you’re a fan of grand plans or prefer small, meaningful changes, here are some resolution ideas to inspire your journey into 2025—with a local twist. 1. Prioritize Your Health 2025 is the perfect year to focus on your physical and mental well-being. Instead of generic goals like “lose weight” or “get fit,” think about actionable, enjoyable steps. Join a fitness class at the Ames Community Center, take a daily walk in one of Ames’ beautiful parks, or try yoga sessions offered by local studios. 2. Cultivate Gratitude Gratitude has a profound effect on happiness and resilience. Make it a habit to jot down three things you’re grateful for each day. For inspiration, take a serene winter stroll at Ada Hayden Heritage Park and reflect on the beauty around you. 3. Learn Something New Why not make 2025 the year of growth and curiosity? Whether it’s mastering a new language, taking up photography, or learning to cook, Ames offers plenty of opportunities. Check out classes at Iowa State University’s Extension and Outreach Program or explore workshops at the Octagon Center For The Arts. 4. Declutter Your Space A cluttered environment often mirrors a cluttered mind. Start the year by organizing your home, desk, or digital files. Need help? Visit Restore Ames Habitat for Humanity to donate items you no longer need and support a great cause. 5. Strengthen Relationships In our busy lives, it’s easy to let relationships take a backseat. Resolve to nurture your connections in 2025 by reaching out to loved ones more often, being present during conversations, or planning regular get-togethers. For a fun winter outing, consider an ice-skating trip to Ames/ISU Ice Arena. 6. Give Back Consider how you can make a difference this year. Volunteer, support a cause you’re passionate about, or simply commit to acts of kindness. Organizations like Food At First and The Bridge Home in Ames are always looking for helping hands. 7. Focus on Financial Wellness Make 2025 a year of smarter money habits. Create a realistic budget, start an emergency fund, or set specific savings goals. If you’re renting in Ames, connect with us at Elite Property Management to find affordable, high-quality housing that suits your budget. Explore Ames This Winter Ames has so much to offer during the colder months. Here are a few must-try activities: Visit the Reiman Gardens and enjoy their winter exhibits. Attend a Cyclones basketball game at Hilton Coliseum. Warm up with a cup of coffee from Cafe Diem. Take the family to Perfect Games for bowling and arcade fun. Wishing You a Wonderful Year Ahead As we step into 2025, we at Elite Property Management want to wish you a year filled with opportunities, growth, and joy. No matter what resolutions you set (or don’t set), remember that every day is a chance to start anew. Be kind to yourself, embrace the journey, and celebrate even the smallest victories. Here’s to a year of dreaming big, living fully, and making every moment count. Happy New Year from all of us at Elite Property Management!
By Ben Knudson November 15, 2024
Community Events and Festivities 1. Reiman Gardens Winter Lights Experience the magic of the holidays at Reiman Gardens’ Winter Lights event . The gardens are transformed into a dazzling display of thousands of twinkling lights, festive decorations, and themed installations. It’s the perfect opportunity to take a stroll, enjoy the beauty, and snap some memorable photos. 2. Downtown Ames Snow Magic Kick-Off Celebrate the start of the holiday season at the Snow Magic Kick-Off event in downtown Ames! This festive event features a parade, holiday lights, and family-friendly activities to ring in the holiday season in style. It’s a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit while enjoying the charm of downtown Ames. 3. Skating at the Ames Ice Arena For those who love winter sports, the Ames Ice Arena offers public skating sessions throughout the holiday season. Whether you're a beginner or an expert skater, it’s a fun and festive way to enjoy the season. The rink is often decked out with holiday decorations to add to the cheer. 4. Holiday Festival at Iowa State University Iowa State University’s Holiday Festival is a must-see. With a tree lighting ceremony, holiday music performances, and a festive atmosphere around campus, it’s a wonderful way to experience the season. Don't miss the ISU Memorial Union holiday market, where you can find unique crafts and local goods. 5. The Nutcracker Ballet at Stephens Auditorium Ames’ annual tradition, "The Nutcracker" ballet, is performed at Stephens Auditorium each holiday season. This enchanting show, performed by local dancers and sometimes guest artists, is perfect for families and theater lovers alike. Be sure to get your tickets early as this beloved performance often sells out. Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Celebration 1. Stay Warm and Layer Up Winter in Ames can be chilly, so make sure to dress in layers to stay warm while enjoying outdoor festivities. A good coat, gloves, hat, and scarf are essential for comfort, especially if you're attending events like Winter Lights at Reiman Gardens or the Snow Magic Kick-Off. 2. Be Mindful of Winter Weather Icy roads and snow can impact travel during the holiday season. Check the weather forecast before heading out, and allow extra time for travel. If you’re driving, keep your vehicle winter-ready with proper tires, windshield washer fluid, and an emergency kit. If you plan to walk, watch out for slippery sidewalks and paths. 3. Keep Your Holidays Stress-Free With all the events, shopping, and family gatherings, it's easy to get overwhelmed. Set aside time to relax and enjoy the season. Whether it’s a quiet evening by the fire, a hot cup of cocoa at the Holiday Festival, or simply watching a holiday movie, make time to unwind and enjoy the little moments. Conclusion Ames truly has something for everyone this holiday season—from enchanting light displays and festive shopping to ice skating and timeless holiday performances. Whether you're eager to enjoy the winter wonderland outdoors, immerse yourself in local traditions, or simply bask in the seasonal cheer, there's no shortage of ways to make this time of year memorable. With so much to see and do, Ames is the perfect place to celebrate the holidays and create lasting memories with friends and family. Wishing you a joyful and safe holiday season from the whole team at Elite Property Management!
More Posts
Share by: