Memorial Day

It’s such a great place to celebrate all the brave wonderful men and women who have given their life in service of our country to keep us safe and free. On Monday, May 29th, 2017 the Big Bear Valley Marine Corps League Detachment 1038 and The American Legion Post 584 will participate in a very special program commemorating the sacrifices of the United States military personnel.
This wonderful program takes place at the beautiful Veterans Park by the shore of Big Bear Lake. The public is cordially invited to join veterans and families of service personnel and first responders, past and present to participate in the procession and ceremony at Veterans Park on Big Bear Blvd in the center of town.The 2017 ceremony will begin at 10 a.m. with a bagpipe tribute, performed by Major Nelson Reynolds, USAF retired. Major Nelson has supported the Big Bear Memorial Day Ceremony for many years and is honored to take a part in this ceremony each year. The keynote speaker for the event will be the Brigade Commander from Ft. Irwin, Colonel Melton. The honored guest is a WWII, U.S. Army, Purple Heart recipient, Jack Green. His son, John Green will share some details of their recent trip to the American Cemetery in Luxembourg, Germany where 5,076 U.S. Soldiers are buried.

In addition, the following participants will be present for this very special celebration:
Assemblyman Jay Obernolte of the 33rd District
Mayor David A. Caretto of the City of Big Bear Lake
Big Bear Mortuary
Marine Corps Color Guard from MCLB Barstow
American Legion Post 584
Women’s Auxiliary American Legion Post 584
Reverend Tom Goodman of the American Legion Post 584
Cub Scout Troop 49
Vocal music by “Voice Male” from Big Bear High School – students of Diane Sloan Kubeja

After the ceremonies to honor our Veterans at Veterans Park, enjoy a beautiful drive along the shoreline around the lake to the north shore side of the lake where you’ll discover Fawnskin. Fawnskin is the quieter side of the lake but on Memorial Day it will come alive! It will host a wonderful festival packed with fun and excitement! “The Western Mountain Steam Festival”.

The Western Mountain Steam Festival at Pederson’s Mill in Fawnskin

The Western Mountain Steam Festival welcomes everyone, from locals to visitors,  the young, the old and everyone in between, will enjoy this fun packed day!
Come and mingle with Cowboys, Time Travelers and Pirates! There will be lots of Entertainment, Great Food & Ale, Sarsaparilla and Soda for the young and young at heart! Visit the merchants who sell their handcrafted items like  Jewelry, Clothing, Artwork, Unique Time Traveler and Steampunk Items, and much, much more!!

The festival opens at 10am and goes throughout the day until 6pm on Saturday and Sunday May 27th and 28th.  On Memorial Day,  Monday May 29th the hours are 10am – 4pm.  Located at  Pederson’s Mill at 39115 Rim of the World Drive in Fawnskin

This entertaining festival will be a wonderful addition to your amazing Big Bear Lake vacation this Memorial Day!