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By Lindsey Allen, For Washington Daily News

In a few short days, people will either head to the beach or host barbecues at their homes to celebrate Memorial Day Weekend. In Beaufort County, there are several ways to have fun and honor men and women who sacrificed their lives while serving in the U.S. military. 

Washington Memorial Day Ceremony

On Monday, May 26, the Beaufort County DAV Chapter will hold its annual Memorial Day Ceremony, beginning at 11 a.m. in Veterans Park (404 East 3rd St, Washington). 

Greater Bath Foundation Memorial Day Celebration 

The Greater Bath Foundation will host their annual Memorial Day celebration on Saturday, May 24, 2025 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Bonner’s Point (207 Front St, Bath). There will be food trucks available throughout the event and The Embers featuring Craig Woolard will perform beach music starting at 6 p.m. At 9 p.m., Eastern North Carolina’s biggest firework show will be held on the water. 

North Carolina Fossil Festival 

Aurora Fossil Museum will host the annual North Carolina Fossil Festival on May 24-25, 2025  on Main Street in Aurora. The annual event is held to raise awareness of the state’s natural history and support the Aurora Fossil Museum. There will be a wide variety of activities and attractions for attendees to experience. According to the website, ncfossilfest.com, there will be over 100 vendors, a 5K run, silent auction, parade, live music and STEAM Zone Activities. The main attraction is an opportunity to hunt for fossils and shark teeth in materials provided by Nutrien. Tools will be available for purchase near the digging area, or attendees are welcome to bring their own gear – small garden tools and sifters. While this is a free event and is open to the public, there are VIP passes available on their website which allow buyers to access indoor bathrooms, have a reserved fossil digging area, WiFi and picnic area and a discount on gift shop purchases.