Staff Report / May 24, 2026
The Penn Yan community will gather Monday to honor the nation’s fallen military service members with its annual Memorial Day parade and remembrance ceremony. Organized by local veterans organizations and community leaders, the event will continue a longstanding tradition of recognizing those who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the United States Armed Forces.
According to organizers, the parade will begin at 10 a.m., with participants assembling beforehand at the Penn Yan Community Center on North Main Street. The procession will travel through the village before concluding at the Yates County Courthouse lawn, where a memorial ceremony is scheduled to begin at 11 a.m. The event will feature remarks from local veterans, community leaders, and representatives of area veterans organizations.
The ceremony will include traditional Memorial Day observances such as the presentation of colors, patriotic music, a rifle salute, and the playing of Taps. Organizers said the program is intended to remember and honor military personnel who died in service to the country and to provide the community with an opportunity to reflect on their sacrifices.
Memorial Day events remain an important tradition throughout Yates County and the Finger Lakes region, with communities hosting parades, cemetery services, and commemorative programs. Local officials encourage residents to attend Monday’s observance and join in honoring the men and women whose service and sacrifice helped preserve the nation’s freedoms.
In the event of inclement weather, organizers have announced alternate arrangements to ensure the ceremony can proceed. Residents are encouraged to check local announcements for any last-minute updates before attending.
