Celebrate Memorial Day Weekend at Historic Fort Snelling 

For immediate release

Release dated: May 12, 2023

MNHS media contacts: Jack Bernstein, 651-259-3058, jack.bernstein@mnhs.org  or Allison Ortiz, 651-259-3051, allison.ortiz@mnhs.org 

Three-day event honoring Minnesota’s past “Decoration Day” traditions

ST. PAUL, Minn (May 12, 2023) – The Minnesota Historical Society invites guests to experience how Minnesota celebrated "Decoration Day," an early version of what we now know as Memorial Day, with a special program at Historic Fort Snelling. 

With events planned from May 27-29, attendees will get to experience historic programming across the entire 23 acre site, ranging from the Plank Museum and Visitor Center, the new prairie landscape, and the historic Fort.

On Saturday, May 27, Historic Fort Snelling staff will be rededicating the reconstructed 1820s fort flag pole. Guests will get to witness the large garrison flag being flown at the fort for the first time since 2021. Historically, the US Army would replace the flag pole every 10-15 years.

The traditional “Decoration Day” celebration will take place on Monday, May 29. Historic Fort Snelling staff will deliver speeches dressed in 1890s military costuming, reflecting on the most commonly discussed conflicts of the late 1800s. Afternoon visitors on Saturday and Monday will also be able to attend a military bicycle demonstration.

Regular site admission applies. MNHS members, current military members, veterans, and Native American community members can attend at no cost. Additional event information can be found here.

About the Minnesota Historical Society

The Minnesota Historical Society is a non-profit educational and cultural institution established in 1849. MNHS collects, preserves, and tells the story of Minnesota’s past through museum exhibits, libraries and collections, historic sites, educational programs, and book publishing. Using the power of history to transform lives, MNHS preserves our past, shares our state’s stories, and connects people with history.