This Memorial Day Weekend, Big Cedar Lodge invites guests to pause, reflect, and celebrate the start of summer in the heart of the Ozarks. Nestled beside the sparkling waters of Table Rock Lake and surrounded by the beauty of the Ozark Mountains, the 4,600-acre rustic luxury resort offers the perfect setting for family fun, heartfelt remembrance, and lakeside relaxation.
From spectacular fireworks and family-friendly activities to meaningful tributes to those who have served, the entire weekend is designed to honor our nation’s heroes while making lasting summer memories. Whether you’re planning a full weekend getaway or joining us for the day, here’s everything happening Memorial Day Weekend at America’s Premier Wilderness Resort.
Thursday Events
Thursday, May 21st – Monday, May 25th
Big Cedar Lodge will host a special replica of the Vietnam War Memorial at the Registration Lawn, honoring the more than 58,000 men and women who gave their lives or remain missing in the conflict. We invite you to pay tribute to their courage and sacrifice during this solemn display.
Thursday, May 21st From 5:00pm-6:30pm At Fun Mountain
Sign up today to take part in the third annual Fun Mountain Memorial Bowling Tournament! This is not just a normal bowling tournament, you’ll have 10 frames of bowling in which each frame will be a new challenge such as granny style bowling, opposite hand bowling and backwards bowling. Each participant will receive a prize and a Fun Mountain game card. Reservations are required.
Friday Events
Friday, May 22nd at 2:00pm at Bent Hook Marina
Enjoy multiple games and styles of our special edition holiday Bingo on the beach! Prizes will be awarded to the winners. This event is first come first served and space is limited.
Pedal Boat Family Fishing Tournament
Friday, May 22nd At 4:00pm-5:00pm At Bent Hook Marina
Saturday, May 23rd From 3:00pm-4:00pm & 4:30pm-5:30pm At Bent Hook Marina
Enjoy a fun evening of fishing on Table Rock Lake! Families and friends will be assigned a pedal boat (up to 4 people per boat). Tackle and fishing poles will be provided. Fishers will have one hour to try and catch the heaviest fish. Winners will receive a Bass Pro Shops prize, and a grand prize will be awarded! A Missouri fishing license is required for adults and can be obtained from the Marina. Reservations required.
Saturday Events
Saturday, May 23rd at 8:00am
Make your way through our beautiful 5K trail during our Memorial Day weekend Run to Remember! Whether you are racing for the best time, or gently jogging while you reflect on the meaning of this holiday, you will be sure to enjoy this special commemorative event.
Pro Angler Charlie Evans & Paw Patrol Special Appearance
Saturday, May 23rd at 11:00am
PAW Patrol is on a roll!” Bring your little ones to meet their fearless four legged friends in person! Professional competitive fisherman, Charlie Evans, joins forces with Marshall the firefighting Dalmatian and Skye the air rescue cockapoo to bring a smile to your face! No reservations required are required from this complimentary meet and greet.
Sunday Events
Garden Chapel Memorial Day Service
Sunday, May 24th 9:00am – 9:45am & 10:00am – 10:45am
Attend a nondenominational Memorial Day service in the gorgeous Garden Chapel at Big Cedar Lodge.
Memorial Day Patriotic Picnic
Sunday, May 24th
- 4:30 PM: The Patriotic Picnic Begins – Games, crafts, food, and attractions for the whole family to enjoy.
- 6:15 PM: Wreath Laying Ceremony and fly over
- 6:30 PM: Live Concert by Clay Self
- Dusk: Fireworks at Big Cedar Lodge & Top of the Rock – Cap off the night with a spectacular fireworks display over Table Rock Lake, followed by an impressive drone show.
Head to the Grandview Conference Center Lawn for a range of activities, including inflatables, face painting, tie-dye stations, balloon artists, and a thrilling flyover. This vibrant event will be a highlight of your Memorial Day Weekend! Open to the public
Sunday, May 24th at 7:30pm – 9:30pm
Celebrate summer nights in style at this exclusive adults-only poolside event. Relax under the stars, sip something refreshing, and enjoy front-row views of the fireworks from the Swimmin’ Hole.
Private Poolside Cabana Fireworks Viewing
Sunday, May 24th
Book a private poolside cabana and watch the fireworks show from one of the best views on property. Your group will receive a snack basket and an ice bucket with your favorite beverages. Limited availability, so be sure to reserve your cabana early!
Sunday May 24 at 4:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Join us for a festive on-the-water gathering and live Radio Broadcast at Bent Hook Marina with Hemme and KTTS, during Memorial Day weekend in conjunction with Big Cedar Lodge’s annual Memorial Day Picnic and fireworks show.
Additional Memorial Day Weekend Activities
Sunset Ceremony at Top of the Rock
Each evening at sunset, experience a tribute to the past with a Civil War cannon firing and a glass-raising toast as the sun dips below the horizon. Enjoy dinner at Osage Restaurant, Buffalo Bar, or the “End of the Trail” Wine Cellar. (Daily at sunset, entry fee applies for non-resort guests.)
Lady Liberty Cruises
Hop aboard our 62-foot luxury yacht for a daytime cruise, brunch, or dinner, or treat yourself to an unforgettable Fourth of July or Labor Day fireworks voyage. After-hours cocktail cruises are also available for guests 21+.
Goin’ Jessi Table Rock Lake Tour
Cruise the serene waters of Table Rock Lake aboard the replica 1934 Chris Craft, “Goin’ Jessi.” This exclusive tour with a Big Cedar guide provides a relaxing way to experience the beauty of the lake.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is parking for day guests?
Day guests are invited to park at the Grandview Conference Center upper lot and Fun Mountain’s lot. Parking is first-come, first-serve.
Note: Wilderness Club, Cliffs, and Paradise Point guests must park at Wilderness Club and take a shuttle to the event.
Where can I watch fireworks?
Enjoy a world-class fireworks and drone show at dusk from the Grandview Conference Center Lawn at Big Cedar Lodge. Additionally, guests can witness a breathtaking fireworks show at Top of the Rock.
Please note:
• Top of the Rock does not allow lawn chairs—viewing is from the patio or restaurant only.
• Entry fee applies at Top of the Rock.
Visit the Memorial Day Landing Page for additional information here.
Plan Your Memorial Day Getaway
Whether you’re coming for the events, the views, or the meaningful tributes, Memorial Day Weekend at Big Cedar Lodge is a time to reflect, connect, and celebrate. We invite you to join us as we honor our nation’s heroes and welcome the summer season in an unforgettable way. Book your stay today and make lasting memories at America’s Premier Wilderness Resort.