ROCHESTER — On May 30, Rochester will host its 150th Memorial Day celebration — the longest continuous Memorial Day observance in Wisconsin.
The event is expected to attract thousands so in anticipation of the crowds the village will offer off-site parking and a wagon shuttle at this year’s milestone Memorial Day event.
Among several presenters Speaker of the House Paul Ryan will be speaking at the festivities.
Organizers say that this years event will include a memorial service in Rochester Cemetery, a parade, speakers, a 21-gun salute and the lowering of a wreath into the Fox River to commemorate those who died defending the nation.
Because the Main Street bridge that runs over the Fox River will be closed for repairs, organizers of the event are asking that visitors enter Rochester through Burlington via Highway W or through Waterford via Front/Jefferson Street.
Parking will not be allowed along the parade route. Instead, public parking will be available at HyPro, 600 S. Jefferson St., in Waterford Industrial Park. Event goers can board wagon rides from there which will transport them to Pioneer Park.
The event will also include a white horse with a red sash, which harkens back to the village’s first observances of this day.
Pioneer Park has been spruced up by the village in preparation of the event by completing a new gazebo, adding some plantings, and installing new benches and trash cans.
Rochester Memorial Day Schedule
11:30 a.m.: Service by Essman-Schroeder American Legion Post 20 at Rochester Cemetery
1:30 p.m.: Parade through the village starting at the Rochester Firehouse and ending at Pioneer Park
Following parade: Patriotic music and special speakers including Speaker of the House Paul Ryan, a 21-gun salute and lowering of wreath into Fox River.
