Memorial Day events turn virtual amid pandemic

A rainy Memorial Day did not stop hundreds of people from paying their respect at Fort Snelling National Cemetery – but COVID-19 did stop its annual ceremony from happening in-person.

Instead, it was prerecorded and can be watched from the safety of your home during this pandemic. State leaders, including Gov. Tim Walz and Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith are part of the online event.

Some traditions did continue – hundreds of people visited loved ones at cemeteries and there were multiple honorary flyovers. At Fort Snelling National Cemetery, the Commemorative Air Force Minnesota Wing fly-over twice.

Other cemeteries and events are also virtual – KSTP's Memorial Day Guide page has a list so you can be a part of them.